It has been a few years since a 200,000 litre water reservoir was constructed in Jomotshangkha town, Samdrup Jongkhar. However, even today, water shortage persists in some parts of the town due to a lack of pipelines and mismanagement. This has affected the daily lives of the residents as they do not have access to clean drinking water.
Nima who resides in the lower part of the Jomotshangkha town depends mostly on a nearby stream for drinking water needs.
“I rely on this stream but during winter, it gets dried up. I have tenants living in my house so, it is causing inconveniences.”
Like her, some residents also depend on this stream.
“Our water is supplied from Chukarpo. During summers, all the water pipes get washed away. So, we do not receive water. We have formed a group and we maintain it whenever it gets damaged,” said Dawa, a resident.
“The government has supported us. But we need to look at how the water is managed. I am not sure whether there is a plumber or not. We heard that there is a plumber if so, the plumber needs to come here and check. The plumber needs to repair the pipes and we are also ready to work,” said Yeshi Wangdi, another resident.
The Langchenphu Gup also acknowledged the issue in lower Jomotshangkha.
The gup added that the gewog administration is looking for funds to construct proper pipelines.
Meanwhile, the Jomotshangkha Dungkhag Administration said mismanagement of water has primarily led to the issue.
According to the dungpa, residents leave taps open despite telling them not to do so. He also added that the water pipes are frequently damaged by elephants.
The dungkhag administration is also planning to form a committee to manage water.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Tshering Zam
