People of Merak in Trashigang will no longer have to walk for days just to recharge their mobile phones. They can now do it in the comfort of their homes.
With the Bhutan Power Corporation connecting Merak with electricity on 30th November, the inhabitants also need not fumble in the darkness as the night sets in. They can switch on the lights.
Located two days walk from the nearest motor-able road, Merak is one of the remotest geogs in Trashigang. The geog has 370 households.
For decades, it has remained untouched by modernity but last year it was connected to the cellular network. A farm road is under construction. Now it has been connected by electricity.
Before the electricity supply was formally switched on, the villagers were briefed on the safety measures. Officials also demonstrated how to use electric appliances to cook food, boil water or watch a DVD.
The electrification project cost an estimated Nu.28 million. It was funded by the Asian Development Bank.