Attending the raising of the 108 Jangchub Chorten in Gelephu Mindfulness City will mean preparing for a long day, with hours of prayers and a large gathering expected. From regular medication and drinking water to packed meals and something to sit on, here are some things to keep in mind before travelling to Gelephu.
Medical services are being arranged to respond to emergencies during the event. However, health officials are advising elderly people and those with chronic conditions to visit their nearest hospital before coming to the city.
Dr Choeda Gyaltshen, Medical Superintendent of the Central Regional Referral Hospital, said most of the people expected to attend are elderly, with chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.
“We would like to request them to visit their nearest hospital in their respective area and get checked. Then, collect medicines from the hospital, and then plan to move to Gelephu,” he said.
He added that once in Gelephu, people should not leave their medicine at a relative’s house or in the tent. “Carry medicine in a bag with water and something to eat,” he said.
Around 200 health workers will provide medical services at four locations. A 10-bed hospital with two ambulances will serve guests at the Tareythang Gyalsung project, while services at Chuzergang Hospital and the Central Regional Referral Hospital will be strengthened.
Mobile medical units, each staffed by a doctor, a nurse and an emergency medical responder, will also be deployed along the zeerays on the western bank of the Mao River.
With the event site near the Mao River and attendees expected to sit on the ground in front of the zeerays, officials are advising them to carry face masks to protect themselves from dust. Attendees are also advised to carry umbrellas.
Tashi Penjor, Managing Director of City Development at the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority (GMCA), said attendees are encouraged to bring their own mats and suitable chairs, especially those who may have difficulty sitting on the ground for long periods.
“This will help them remain comfortable throughout the programme,” he said.
Drinking water will be available at hydration points near each zeeray. However, attendees are encouraged to carry their own water bottles to stay hydrated.
Although GMCA plans to serve porridge in the morning, followed by suja, shamdrey and sel roti in the afternoon, attendees are encouraged to bring packed lunches.
Two information and help desks, marked by blue tents, are being set up behind Zeeray 2 and Zeeray 6 to assist separated children and elderly people and reunite them with their families or caregivers.
Parents and caregivers are urged to remain vigilant and ensure the safety and well-being of those in their care throughout the event.
Organisers say separate toilet facilities are being arranged for guests behind the zeerays, while more than 5,000 toilets are being constructed in public areas. Commercial tents will also have dedicated toilets within their designated spaces.
Although attendees are required to wear formal attire, a kabney or rachu is not compulsory.
According to the National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) forecast, Sarpang is expected to see mostly cloudy weather over the next three days, with light rain likely on 30 October. Attendees are advised to plan accordingly and carry suitable clothing and rain gear.
With a large gathering expected, attendees are encouraged to prepare essential items, plan their journeys and follow official guidance to make their visit to Gelephu safer and more comfortable.
Namgay Wangdi
Edited by Sangay Chezom
