Jadrung Lhakhang in Trashigang’s Khaling Gewog is on the verge of collapse as the walls, both inside and outside, have developed cracks. The structure which is quite old also suffered damages from the earthquake in 2009. While there are no written records about the history of the Lhakhang, it is believed to have been built over 500 years ago by a tax collector named Jadrung, who used it as his residence.
Significant cracks have developed on the walls of both inside and outside of the Lhakhang. Some pillars have shifted, putting sacred relics and the caretakers in danger.
According to the residents, the Lhakhang underwent renovations in the 1940s. The earthquake in 2009 worsened its condition.
They said because of the Lhakhang’s precarious condition, locals have stopped conducting annual religious activities inside the Lhakhang.
“After the earthquake, the walls suffered extensive damage with many new cracks developing. As a result, we have not been able to enter the Lhakhang and our yearly religious events had to be cancelled. We are concerned that a disaster might strike our community if the situation isn’t addressed,” said Kinzang Sonam, a resident of Khaling.
“If a Lhakhang like this were to collapse, it would be a loss to our history. Moreover, the sacred relics, including statues and religious texts could be damaged, bringing misfortune to both our village and the nation,” said Thubten Tashi, Jadrung Lhakhang Lam.
Meanwhile, the gewog is awaiting the budget that was allocated for the Lhakhang renovation.
“We have discussed this issue during the recent Dzongkhag Tshogdu, and they have approved Nu 9 M. But we have yet to receive the budget. We will start the Lhakhang renovation once we receive the budget,” said Sonam Dorji, Khaling Gup.
A single-storey Choekhang is currently under construction with financial support from both the district and Gewog. The construction is nearing completion. Once complete, the sacred relics will be moved to the Choekhang.
The Lhakhang was previously taken care of by the Khaling community. It was handed over to the Dratshang at the beginning of last year.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
Edited by Sonam Pem
