In August this year, a flash flood completely washed away one of Trashi Yangtse town’s water sources. Located about six kilometres from the town, the source is still in shambles. As a temporary measure, the dzongkhag administration has installed temporary water tanks. But residents complain of unreliable and murky water. However, going by the pledges of the Thromde Representative candidates, the water problem in the town could be solved, once and for all.
It has been long since the residents of Trashi Yangtse town tasted fresh clean water. After the recent flash flood, drinking water has been erratic and muddy. Residents said sometimes they don’t get water for weeks.
“It has been days without water and whatever little we get is muddy,” said Kumar Biswas, a resident in the town.
And now that the election is around the corner, Thromde Representative candidates are selling themselves around their pledges to make water available at all times.
Of the two candidates vying for the post of Thromde Representative, one is 28-year-old Jamba Sonam. He said there is a lot a representative should do to solve the water problem in the town.
“Although the town is located between three streams, there are frequent water shortages. We can even see it in the news. People are suffering and it requires urgent attention,” he said.
The other candidate, 32-year-old Jamtsho is equally concerned about the pressing issue. He pledges not only to repair all the damaged sources but also explore other sources to make water available at all times.
“I am also thinking of installing an early flood warning system along the Serkang stream,” the candidate said.
Yangtse has a wealth of several fast-flowing streams but whether the elected person can bring it to their doorsteps remains a test of time. And residents are hopeful that whoever wins will keep their promise.
Tshering Dendup, Trashi Yangtse
Edited by Chayku
