(Update): The villagers of Khariphu in Thimphu met with Thimphu Dzongrab, Dorji Gyeltshen and Mewang Gup, Tandin Pema as part of the ongoing investigation. The findings on lime mining are expected to be ready by tomorrow.
The investigation was carried out after some of the villagers filed a complaint saying their water source was impacted by the lime mining which was carried out by Kuenphen Norden Mining Company.
Each villager was asked to give a statement.
From 46 households in the village, 13 had refused to sign a clearance agreement which could allow to extend the lease period of Kuenphen Norden Mining Company. The extension would be for five years.
“The committee has done thorough investigation on all the complaints and including people from Department of Geology and Mines and National Environment Commission,” said Dzongrab Dorji Gyeltshen. He said they have also tested the soil and water.
He said they have reached the final stage of the investigation.
Kuenphen Norden Mining Company has been excavating lime for about 10 years. The lease period expired last month.
