Samtse College of Education is grappling with a severe water shortage, impacting both students and staff. Despite efforts by the college administration, the situation remains dire.
The acute water shortage at the Samtse College of Education is causing disruptions in the routines of both students and staff members. Water supply, available only for a few hours in the morning and evening, is leaving many without water for significant parts of the day.
The college administration, recognising the severity of the issue, has taken steps to install small water tanks in every toilet and bathroom of the college hostels.
However, this measure has proven insufficient, prompting concerns from those directly affected. Some students of the college, preferring not to disclose their identities, revealed that they occasionally resort to purchasing mineral water for personal hygiene, including washing their faces.
“We hesitate to use our toilets due to lack of water for cleaning. There are times when we do not have enough water even for basic activities like brushing our teeth and washing our faces. We have to wake up early in the morning and search for water, carrying buckets to fulfil these daily needs,” said a student.
“The water shortage is even more acute on the top floors of the hostels as we barely receive any water in our toilets and bathrooms. Even those staying on the middle and lower floors only get water for a few hours, and it is insufficient. Previously, to wash clothes and take a bath, we would visit other blocks on the campus, but unfortunately, there is a water shortage there as well now,” added another student.
A student said, “Due to the high number of students, we are encountering significant challenges with water shortages. Many students resort to buying mineral water for drinking and other needs from shops. We cannot even take baths and use the toilet.”
The district municipal office, responsible for water supply to the college area, cited several reasons for the ongoing issue.
The drying up of local water sources and the recent damage to the supplementary water source of the town are identified as primary contributors to the problem.
Adding to the challenges is the delay in the completion of the new water transmission line, a flagship project in Samtse. Initiated last year, the project is expected to conclude in March this year, offering a long-term solution to the water scarcity issue.
Meanwhile, the college administration is actively seeking alternatives to alleviate the issue. In addition to using water tankers, the college is tapping into excess water from nearby residences.
Facing frequent water shortages, the college in 2018 had proposed an alternative water source exclusively for the campus.
However, the proposal was turned down by the district administration, assuring that the ongoing water transmission line project would resolve the issue.
Samtse College of Education today accommodates more than 480 students, highlighting the urgent need for a steady water supply to cater to the growing student population.
Passang Dorji, Samtse
Edited by Kipchu
