𝐓𝐬𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐨𝐞𝐝 𝐆𝐞𝐰𝐨𝐠 𝐍𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭

By Lhendup Wangmo

The persistent drinking water crisis in Tsirang Toed Gewog is finally being addressed through a new project that is nearly halfway complete. The initiative aims to provide a consistent water supply to the gewog and neighboring Pungtenchhu Gewog, benefiting approximately 8,500 people.

The water is sourced from downstream of Dhap Tsho, situated about 28 kilometers from the gewog. With 46 percent of the project completed, residents are hopeful for a steady supply.
Nanda Lal Kharel, Gup of Tsirang Toed Gewog, stated that the project will benefit a population of 2,700 across 315 households, covering five chiwogs in Tsirang Toed. Additionally, institutions such as schools, the hospital, Lhakhang, and the forest office will also benefit.

“In the past, we shared drinking water, and it was sufficient when the number of households was around 200. However, with the former primary school now upgraded to a central school, the basic health unit (BHU) transformed into a hospital, and the establishment of three gewog range offices, the population has increased significantly, leading to severe water shortages,” he explained.

Tsirang has been relying on rainwater harvesting, but due to climate change, this has become less effective. The current water source is from downstream of Dhap Tsho, located about 28 kilometers from the gewog. With 46 percent of the project already completed, residents remain hopeful for a reliable water supply.

“We are hopeful that this project will finally provide us with sufficient drinking water,” said the Gup. The project is a shared initiative between Tsirang Toed Gewog and Phuentenchu Gewog.

Garjaman Rai, Mangmi of Tsirang Toed Gewog, emphasized the significance of the water project, stating, “This project will be highly beneficial for all households in the gewog, as well as for public institutions like schools, healthcare centers, and offices. Over the years, our population has grown, and with that, the demand for water has also increased. Previously, when the number of households was lower, our existing water source was sufficient, but now, with more families, a central school, a hospital, and several government offices established in the area, the shortage has become a major concern.”

He further explained, “Currently, we receive drinking water only once a day, and even that is not always sufficient. The existing water source is drying up, and with changing weather patterns due to climate change, we are deeply concerned that the situation will worsen in the coming years. People have even started relying on rainwater harvesting, but that is no longer as dependable as it once was. With this new project, we are hopeful that the problem will be addressed and that every household will have access to a steady water supply, not just for drinking but also for maintaining hygiene and daily household needs.”

“The project, once completed, will not only improve the quality of life for the residents but also support the smooth functioning of schools and healthcare services. Safe and reliable drinking water is a basic necessity, and we are grateful for this initiative, which will make a significant difference in the lives of our people,” he added.

“The new project is a crucial intervention that will ensure a reliable supply of drinking water while also improving hygiene for the community. With the increasing population and expanding public institutions, having a sustainable water source is essential for our daily lives and overall well-being. Right now, we receive water only once a day, and since the existing source is drying up, we are deeply worried that the shortage will worsen in the future,” said a concerned resident.

Tshering Dorji, a resident of Tsirang Toed Gewog, expressed his optimism about the ongoing water project, saying, “This project has given us hope. For years, we have struggled with water shortages, and the situation has only gotten worse as the population grows. Right now, we receive water only once a day, and even that is not enough for all households.”

He highlighted the difficulties faced by the community, adding, “The existing water source is drying up, and we fear that if nothing is done, the shortage will become even more severe in the coming years. We have tried rainwater harvesting, but with changing weather patterns, it is no longer reliable. Many families face hardships in managing even their basic water needs.”

Despite these challenges, he remains hopeful about the project’s impact, stating, “Once completed, this initiative will make a huge difference in our lives. It will not only ensure a steady drinking water supply but also help maintain hygiene in our homes, schools, and hospitals. We are grateful for this effort and look forward to finally having a reliable water source for our community.”

“Water shortage has been a growing concern for us,” said Agay Dorji, a resident of Tsirang Toed Gewog. “Right now, we receive drinking water only once a day, and even that is not always enough. Our existing water source is drying up, and we are worried that if the situation continues, the shortage will become even worse in the future.”

He expressed his hopes for the new project, adding, “This initiative is crucial for our community. Once completed, it will ensure that we have a steady supply of drinking water. It will also help us maintain hygiene, which is especially important for our households, schools, and healthcare centers. We are hopeful that this project will bring lasting relief to the people in our gewog.

Tshering Wangchuk, 43 year old Farmer said “Water scarcity has made daily life very difficult. We need water for drinking, cooking, and even for our livestock, but getting enough is a struggle. Right now, we receive water only once a day, and sometimes it’s not enough for all our needs. We have tried storing water, but it’s never sufficient, especially during the dry season.

We are hopeful that this project will solve the issue. It is a necessity, not a luxury. If it ensures a steady water supply, it will make a huge difference for us. We won’t have to walk long distances to fetch water, and it will also help with hygiene and sanitation in our homes and schools.”

Dechen Lhamo, 38 year old shopkeeper said “Running a shop is not just about selling goods. We need water to clean, cook, and maintain hygiene. Without enough water, keeping the place clean is difficult. Even our customers, especially school students, struggle because the nearby taps often run dry. The situation is even worse in the summer when water demand is higher.

I appreciate the initiative. The government’s investment in this project is a sign that they are listening to our concerns. We have been waiting for this for a long time. I just hope it gets completed on time so that our daily struggles with water shortages can finally end.”

Sonam Dorji, 60 year old Retired Civil Servant shared his struggles, saying,”When I was younger, we had fewer households, and the water supply was sufficient. But over time, as more families settled here and institutions like schools and hospitals expanded, the demand for water grew beyond what our existing sources could provide. Now, we are left with a limited supply, and the situation is only getting worse.

I expect a permanent solution, not just a temporary fix. This project must ensure a stable and clean water supply for all households, schools, and public institutions. With climate change affecting rainfall patterns, relying on rainwater harvesting is no longer an option. A strong, sustainable water system is crucial for our future.”

The project, which commenced in February last year, is set to be completed by February next year. It is funded by the Adaptation Fund through the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation at a cost of approximately Nu 120 million. In addition to benefiting residents, the project will support public institutions like schools and healthcare centers.