Health authorities urge elderly devotees to take precautions as organisers put medical, sanitation and public assistance facilities in place for the anticipated gathering.
As Gelephu prepares to welcome thousands of devotees for the raising of the 108 Jangchub Chorten at Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), authorities are stepping up arrangements to ensure the safety and comfort of those attending the religious ceremony.
With the programme expected to stretch over several hours, organisers have urged participants to make adequate preparations, particularly elderly devotees and those living with chronic medical conditions.
Health officials have identified the well-being of elderly participants as a key concern, given the prolonged outdoor gathering and the likelihood of many attendees requiring regular medication.
Dr Choeda Gyaltshen, Medical Superintendent of the Central Regional Referral Hospital, advised people with conditions such as hypertension and diabetes to undergo medical check-ups at their nearest health facilities before travelling to Gelephu.
“We would like to request them to visit their nearest hospital in their respective area and get checked. Then, collect medicines from the hospital, and then plan to move to Gelephu,” he said.
He also cautioned devotees against leaving essential medication at their accommodation once they reach the city. Instead, they should keep their medicines within easy reach, along with drinking water and food, throughout the programme.
To respond to medical emergencies, approximately 200 health personnel will be deployed across four locations. A temporary 10-bed hospital, supported by two ambulances, will cater to guests at the Tareythang Gyalsung project site.
Existing medical facilities at Chuzergang Hospital and the Central Regional Referral Hospital will also receive additional support to manage the anticipated demand for healthcare services.
Mobile medical teams comprising a doctor, a nurse and an emergency medical responder will be stationed along the zeerays on the western bank of the Mao River, allowing medical personnel to provide assistance closer to the gathering areas.
Beyond healthcare, the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority (GMCA) is making arrangements to accommodate participants who will spend extended periods seated outdoors.
As the ceremony will take place near the Mao River, where devotees are expected to gather on the ground in front of the zeerays, attendees have been advised to bring mats or portable chairs.
Tashi Penjor, Managing Director of City Development at GMCA, said suitable seating arrangements would be particularly beneficial for elderly participants and those who may find it difficult to remain seated on the ground for long durations.
“This will help them remain comfortable throughout the programme,” he said.
The riverside setting also presents the possibility of dust exposure, prompting organisers to recommend face masks. Umbrellas and appropriate clothing are also advised to protect against changing weather conditions.
While drinking water will be provided at designated hydration points near each zeeray, visitors have been encouraged to carry reusable water bottles.
Food arrangements are also being made for the gathering. GMCA plans to distribute porridge in the morning, followed by traditional refreshments and meals, including suja, shamdrey and sel roti, later in the day. However, participants are advised to carry packed meals to meet their individual dietary requirements and avoid inconvenience.
Special attention is also being given to the safety of children and elderly visitors who may become separated from their families amid the large gathering.
Two information and assistance centres, identifiable by blue tents, will be established behind Zeeray 2 and Zeeray 6. These centres will serve as contact points for reuniting separated individuals with their relatives or caregivers.
Parents and accompanying family members have been urged to remain attentive throughout the ceremony, particularly in crowded areas.
Sanitation facilities are another major component of the preparations. More than 5,000 toilets are being constructed in public areas, while separate facilities will be provided behind the zeerays for guests. Commercial tents will have dedicated sanitation facilities within their allocated premises.
Organisers have also clarified the dress requirements for the occasion. Although formal attire is expected, wearing a kabney or rachu will not be mandatory.
Meanwhile, weather conditions could influence the experience of those attending the outdoor ceremony.
The National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast predominantly cloudy conditions in Sarpang over the coming three days, with light rainfall possible on October 30. Visitors have therefore been encouraged to carry rain protection and prepare for potentially damp conditions.
The combination of a large congregation, extended prayer sessions and an outdoor venue makes advance planning particularly important, especially for those travelling from other parts of the country.
As preparations continue for the significant religious gathering, authorities are calling on devotees to cooperate with organisers, follow instructions at the venue and take responsibility for their personal health and safety.
With medical teams, public assistance centres, food distribution points and sanitation facilities being put in place, organisers hope to create an environment in which devotees can participate in the raising of the 108 Jangchub Chorten with minimal inconvenience and greater peace of mind.
