The arrival of thousands of volunteers for the 5th voluntary works under the Gelephu Mindfulness City is not only transforming worksites across Gelephu, but it is also quietly energising the town’s economy. From fully booked hotels to busy restaurants, shops and vegetable markets, the town is witnessing an economic ripple effect.
Today, Gelephu town looks noticeably livelier. Shops are crowded, restaurants are busy, and hotels are full. Many shopkeepers say a large number of their recent customers are volunteers.
According to the shop owners, items such as hats, sickles, gloves and protective arm sleeves are among the fastest-selling products in town.
Hotels, too, are feeling the surge. Lama Residency, one of the centrally located hotels in Gelephu with about 10 rooms, is fully occupied.
“All of our rooms are currently occupied by volunteers coming from different parts of the country. We received several calls from groups wanting to book rooms, some in groups of 10 to 15 people, but we had to decline as there were no rooms available,” said Tika Devi Dhimal, Staff, Lama Residency, Gelephu.
Restaurants are experiencing the same momentum. Kitchens are busier than usual, preparing meals for larger groups throughout the day.
Likewise, grocery shop owners also reported that daily sales have nearly doubled compared to regular business days.
“On normal days, we earn around Nu 12,000 to 15,000. However, during the voluntary works period, daily income has almost doubled to around Nu 30,000, mainly due to the increased number of volunteers shopping in town,” said Naina Maya Tamang, Owner of a Grocery Shop in Gelephu.
The impact extends beyond shops and eateries. Parking fee collectors say vehicle numbers in town have noticeably increased.
“On a regular day, about 300 vehicles enter the parking area. But with the voluntary works programme and the presence of Their Majesties, the number of vehicles has noticeably increased,” said Rinchen Dorji, Parking Fee Collector in Gelephu.
At the Gelephu Bounty Market, vegetable vendors are also witnessing more customers.
“We are seeing many new faces buying vegetables and fruits. Business has started improving steadily with the arrival of volunteers and the ongoing activities related to GMC,” said Shetey Pulami, a 55-year-old vegetable vendor.
Currently, more than 16,000 volunteers are taking part in the 5th voluntary works in Gelephu, and their presence is clearly energising the local economy. With more voluntary works planned in the coming months and growing activities under the Gelephu Mindfulness City, business owners in Gelephu say they are optimistic.
For many in town, the spirit of service is not only about building the future city, but it is also about strengthening livelihoods today.
Passang Dorji/Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
