Northeast Desk, 29th May: In response to the pressing issue of water scarcity in Pakyong, District Collector Tashi Chopel convened a review meeting today. Held in the DC’s chamber, the meeting brought together officials from the Public Health Engineering Department (PHE), Rural Management & Development Department, Forest Department, and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).
The session focused on discussing various measures and challenges related to the region’s water resources. The Assistant Engineer (AE) from the PHE Department reported on a joint inspection conducted on May 22 at Richu, Pakyong’s primary water source. This inspection, involving representatives from NHIDCL, PHE, and the Forest Department, revealed that surface runoff from recent NHIDCL road construction and improper debris disposal had muddied the Richu water source. While NHIDCL had attempted to address the issue, the AE noted that the measures taken were insufficient.
In response, DC Tashi Chopel directed the concerned officials to conduct another joint inspection by May 29. He emphasized the urgency of revisiting the site, implementing effective corrective measures, and ensuring thorough monitoring of the debris from road construction. He stressed the importance of proper disposal in designated areas to prevent further contamination.
As an interim solution to the ongoing water shortage, the water supply for Pakyong Bazar, Pachey Samsing, Naopgoan, and Pachey has been scheduled for distribution during morning and evening hours.
Additionally, the Junior Engineer (JE) from the Block Administrative Centre provided an update on the water scarcity in Dikling Pacheykhani, East Dikling, and Zoomthang. Restoration work commenced above the Pakyong Airport after identifying the water source in that area. Although the distribution line has been set up, the water pipeline needs to be laid through the airport drain, which had been blocked by debris. After consultation with airport authorities, the debris was cleared, but damage to the drain was discovered. The decision was made to retrofit the drains according to their original design before laying the JJM pipeline through the drain.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the commitment to address the water scarcity issue and ensure a reliable water supply for all affected areas in Pakyong.
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