Getting a reliable drinking water supply is still a far-fetched dream for some 14 families of Gozhi Toed in Gozhi Gewog in Dagana. The Gewog Administration executed a water project last year but it failed to serve its purpose. It cost the gewog Nu 1 M to complete the project.
Today, the tank located above the chiwog remains empty. According to the residents, they contributed labour expecting that the project will solve the long-standing drinking water crisis.
For years, the residents have been relying on Norbu-Zhingkha chiwog in Tsendagang Gewog for water but it also has a problem.
“People of Tsenda-Gang gewog are not willing to provide water for us, especially during winter. It is because the water level decreases and it is not enough for themselves. The new water project was completed last year but we didn’t receive any water so far. The water could not reach the chiwog because of a cliff between the source and the village,” said Dhan Bdr. Powdel, a resident.
“It is very difficult to live here without water. I grow vegetables but without water, the yield is not good. We receive water from Tsendagang Gewog only during summer,” said Tulashi Maya Bhattarai, another resident.
For a few residents, they have been using water pumps as the water sources are located downhill.
According to the Gewog Administration, the project commenced only after they conducted a survey. However, the supply failed because of the landscape.
“After completing the rural water supply last year, the water could not reach Gozhi Toed because of a cliff between the source and the village. Therefore, we have informed the district engineer about the issue,” said Gozhi Gup Kinzang Tobgay.
Until officials visit the area and find a solution, the residents have to live with the water shortage.
Pema Tshewang, Dagana
Edited by Tshering Zam
