In a bold move to safeguard Bhutan’s natural water resources, the government inaugurated a comprehensive river cleaning initiative on World Water Day. The campaign, aimed at restoring the health of the country’s waterways, began in the Wangchhu basin – an area encompassing rivers flowing through Thimphu, Paro, and Haa – and will progressively expand to cover the entire nation by 2028.
The launch event in Thimphu saw more than 500 enthusiastic volunteers joining forces with civil servants and local leaders to clean up the banks of the Wangchhu basin. In his address to the gathering, the Prime Minister stressed the critical importance of protecting both rivers and glaciers, describing the initiative as a pivotal first step toward ensuring a sustainable future.
“The availability of fresh and clean water is paramount,” he declared. “If we diligently preserve the water we have today, it will not only benefit our drinking supplies and agriculture, but may even position us to export water in the future.” His remarks resonated with many, underlining a vision where environmental conservation is directly linked to national prosperity.
The ambitious program is structured in two distinct phases for its inaugural year. The first phase, a pre-monsoon clean-up running until mid-year, focuses on eliminating waste and debris that have accumulated in the rivers. The subsequent phase, slated for the post-monsoon period, will address seasonal pollution challenges to secure long-term river health.
National campaign coordinator Gyeltshen Dukpa voiced his concerns about the current state of river cleanliness, lamenting the prevalent habit of disposing of waste directly into waterways. “People often neglect proper waste management, resorting to harmful practices like dumping garbage and even defecating in the rivers. It is our collective responsibility to change this behavior for the sake of human and animal health,” he emphasized.
Local volunteers have also shared their personal motivations. Dechen Choden expressed her honor in taking part, stating, “It is a privilege to join hands with others in protecting our aquatic life. Every small effort contributes to a larger goal of environmental preservation.” Similarly, Samul Rai highlighted the dangers posed by everyday waste, remarking, “Items like paper, plastics, and worn-out clothes, when carelessly discarded, become threats to both the animals living in our rivers and to us.”
Looking ahead, authorities plan to replicate this community-driven approach across all districts from 2026 to 2028. By the conclusion of the project in 2028, the government intends to transition monitoring responsibilities to local districts, Thromde, and other pertinent agencies to ensure that the rivers remain pristine and well-maintained.
In collaboration with various agencies, the Prime Minister’s Office is already developing long-term strategies to sustain the initiative, underscoring a commitment to preserving Bhutan’s natural heritage for future generations.
