As summer approaches, residents living along the Nyera-Amachhu in Gomdar Gewog in Samdrup Jongkhar find themselves in a dangerous situation. Despite their decade-long request for a flood protection wall, their safety remains at stake. With the constant fear of losing properties to flooding and swollen river, the people are calling for immediate action.
Tshangchelu near the Nyera-Amachhu is home to more than a thousand residents in Gomdar Gewog. The central school, hospital, banks, and houses are situated close to the riverbanks. In an attempt to protect their properties, residents have resorted to planting bamboo and trees along the riverbanks which is merely a temporary solution.
During the peak monsoon season, the Nyera-Amachhu swells, putting lives and properties at risk.
“Living so close to the river poses a constant risk for us, especially during the summer. When there’s heavy rainfall, we are forced to seek shelter in safer areas. Constructing a flood protection wall would greatly benefit our community, particularly considering the presence of the school and hospital in close proximity to the river,” said Lobzang, a resident.
“Flash floods are a recurring nightmare to us. During the monsoon season, water enters our houses, causing inconvenience and posing risks to our lives. The government’s intervention in building a flood protection wall would be of great help,” said Kunzang, another resident.
“Living here is risky, especially during the summer when heavy rainfall causes the river to swell. We are left with no choice but to evacuate to safer locations. The construction of a flood protection wall has become crucial,” said Rinzin Dorji, a resident.
According to the Gomdar Gewog administration, the office has yet to survey and estimate the cost of constructing a flood protection wall.
“We are fully aware of the risks involved. However, no concrete plan has been devised to address this pressing issue. Since taking office, I have learnt that the department of disaster supports the need for a protection wall. Therefore, the gewog office is actively looking for the required budget,” said Karchung, Gomdar Gup.
Until one proper flood protection wall is constructed along the bank of Nyera-Amachhu, residents of Tshangchelu will have to continue enduring sleepless nights throughout the monsoon season.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Sonam Pem
