Khangma in Yurung Gewog of Pema Gatshel has no adequate water supply for irrigation. The villagers say, as they gradually plan to shift from subsistence to commercial farming, the need has become more urgent. Wilting cardamom plants, dry vegetable gardens, and empty drums and containers next to water taps describe the plight of Khangma’s residents. They say the existing water supply is just enough for drinking and other household chores.
“Because of the acute water shortage, the vegetables do not grow well. For whatever little we grow, we use the little water we can spare from our drinking water supply. It will be difficult to take up commercial farming in the current situation,” said Gembo Dorji, a farmer in Khangma.
“Water is in short supply here. Often time, the wastewater from doing the dishes is sprinkled in our garden. This hardly helps as the crops gradually die. In summer, the situation is slightly better since we can harvest rainwater,” added Karma Yangzom.
For now, their hopes are pinned on the dried lake above the village. According to the Khangma Tshogpa, a source, about two kilometres away, has been finally identified to draw water into the pond.
“We plan to bring water into the lake and distribute it to the fields below. We have started clearing the bushes that have covered the dried lake,” said Sangay Wangchuk, the Khangma Tshogpa.
“We are happy to hear that they will refill the lake. If that happens, it will be beneficial. We went to clear the lake’s surrounding and will contribute whatever labour required for the initiative,” added Karma Yangzom.
The district agriculture sector already visited the site and a feasibility study is underway.
“We already discussed the matter with the divisional forest office. We will also talk to the forest department’s watershed management division for support. This year, we will provide the villagers with water pipes to draw water into the lake,” said Tashi Phuntsho, the District Agriculture Officer of Pema Gatshel.
If the intervention is successful, the farmers are ready to take up mass vegetable farming, something they have been longing to do. It is also expected to address the shortage of drinking water in Khangma.
Today, there are 50 households in the village. Although its lands are fertile, farmers grow mostly cardamom for cash due to the shortage of water.
Thinley Dorji Pema Gatshel
