BHUTAN TODAY The New Perspective
โฆ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ฒ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ , ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐
Rinzin Norbu
The alarming level of littering at Khuru Ground, situated beneath the revered Buddha Point, poses a significant threat to the natural beauty and delicate ecosystem of the area. The once-pristine grounds, renowned for their serenity and charm, now suffer from the overwhelming presence of garbage, ranging from plastic bottles and food wrappers to discarded cigarette butts. Local visitors, deeply distressed by the deterioration, express their disappointment and concern over the visual degradation and potential environmental hazards caused by the litter.
“Litter, ranging from plastic bottles and food wrappers to discarded cigarette butts, is strewn across the once-pristine grounds. The sheer volume of garbage not only diminishes the visual appeal of the area but also poses significant threats to the ecosystem that flourishes here” said Sangay Wangchuk, a local visitor.
Lekden Dorji, accompanied by friends, expressed their profound disappointment, stating, “We used to come here for tranquility and to connect with nature, but now the sight of plastic bottles, bottles, food wrappers, and cigarette butts is disheartening. It’s a real eyesore. The degradation of Khuru Ground due to littering is deeply concerning. The once-pristine grounds are now overwhelmed with garbage, and it’s not just an aesthetic issue”.
“As a regular visitor to Khuru Ground, I am devastated to see the deterioration caused by litter. The beauty of this place has been marred by the presence of plastic bottles, food wrappers, and cigarette butts scattered everywhere. It’s not only visually unappealing but also poses significant dangers to the environment that sustains life here” said Yoezer Wangmo.
Kinley Yangden, a student, expressed her disappointment, saying, “Whenever we visit Buddha Point, we used to take these shortcut routes, and it was incredibly peaceful to walk through. However, now the sightseeing experience has been significantly tarnished due to the excessive litter. It seems that with the addition of the Khuru Ground, the litter problem has worsened, especially after matches. The amount of waste generated has noticeably increased.”
Yangden’s observation highlights the adverse effects of littering on the once-enjoyable journey to Buddha Point. The accumulation of waste not only tarnishes the aesthetic appeal of the area but also hampers the overall experience for visitors and locals alike.
“Efforts to address the litter issue are crucial in restoring the tranquility and charm that drew people to these shortcut routes in the first place. Collective action and responsible waste management are essential in preserving the serenity of this cherished path and ensuring a positive experience for all who venture through it” she added.
To address this issue, collective action and responsible waste management are crucial. The authorities are taking proactive measures by providing guidelines to Khuru players and organizing regular cleaning campaigns aligned with ‘Zero Waste’ principles.
Pema Tenzin, the Officiating Waste Focal of Thimphu Dzongkhag, expressed his concerns, saying, “Given that there are no residents in the immediate vicinity, we have not received any formal complaints regarding the litter issue. However, it is important to note that if caught, individuals responsible for littering will be subject to penalties. Nevertheless, apprehending these offenders can be challenging.”
Tenzin emphasized the proactive approach taken by the authorities, stating, “We ensure that any Khuru players seeking permission to play in the area are provided with comprehensive guidelines and instructions on proper waste management. However, it is possible that there are individuals who engage in leisurely play without seeking permission or adhering to waste management protocols.”
He emphasized, “The only viable solution at this point is to organize regular cleaning campaigns, which will be conducted on the 2nd of every month, coinciding with the observance of ‘Zero Waste’ principles”.
In order to restore the tranquility and charm of Khuru Ground and its surrounding area, it is imperative that the community, local visitors, and authorities join forces in a concerted effort. By working together, they can ensure a positive and sustainable experience for all who embark on a journey through this cherished location.
