The only crematorium for Langthil Gewog located at Yurmung along the Trongsa-Zhemgang highway will now be converted into a roadside amenity. Completed two years ago, the crematorium remains unutilized due to its inappropriate location.
The decision to construct the crematorium at Yurmung was endorsed in the last Gewog Tshogde. It was constructed at a cost of Nu 3 M. But the residents have not used it even once due to its location after the construction. It now remains under lock and key.
“The Yuendruchholing Dzong which has Pema Lingpa’s kudung is situated below the crematorium. Therefore, people say that it’s inappropriate to have a crematorium above the Dzong. So, they are reluctant to use the crematorium,” said Langthil Gup, Rinzin Wangchuk.
“The highway next to the cremation ground is steep and risky. Moreover, the people and Dzongkhag officials have shared and raised concerns regarding its improper location,” said Langthil Tshogpa, Nima.
However, the crematorium will now be converted into a cafeteria and a craft shop. The works will begin next month. The project is estimated to cost more than Nu 2 M.
“Monpa or Jangbi community can sell their indigenous products such Tshazo or bamboo products and earthen potteries from here. And people from Yuendruchhoeling chiwog will benefit from marketing their locally produced soaps and handicrafts woven from the nettle plant,” said Dhangdung Tshogpa, Nidup Lhamo.
Meanwhile, the gewog officials said a new crematorium would soon be constructed at a proper location.
“We would construct a crematorium at a location preferred by all. We will carry out proper research and will construct one within the next five years,” said Langthil Gup, Rinzin Wangchuk.
“People who are well to do cremate in Thimphu, Punakha and Dorji Goenpa in Trongsa. But it is a problem for the destitute. Hence it would be an immense benefit if one could be constructed,” said Langthil Tshogpa, Nima.
There are more than 400 households in Langthil Gewog.
Passang, Trongsa
Edited by Sonam Pem
