A severe flood struck Dechencholing in Thimphu on August 10, wreaking havoc across the area and prompting a swift and unified response from the community. The disaster, attributed to a convective thunderstorm, left approximately 30 homes affected and around 70 households displaced. The flood also caused significant damage to around 15 vehicles.
In the wake of the disaster, around 1,000 volunteers, including armed forces, de-suups (volunteer guards), civil servants, and employees from both private and civil society sectors, mobilized to assist the affected residents. Vajra Builders Private Limited, a local construction firm, played a crucial role by sending 120 workers, along with two excavators and several transport vehicles, to aid in recovery efforts.
“This collective effort highlighted the unity, empathy, and interdependence that characterize Bhutanese society during natural disasters,” remarked an observer, reflecting on the community’s response.
Residents and their families were seen distributing food and refreshments to victims, officials, and volunteers. The cleanup operation involved clearing blocked drains, removing debris, and helping residents recover their belongings. Volunteers also assisted in relocating people to safer areas as conditions remained treacherous and muddy.
Many displaced residents were temporarily housed with friends and relatives in Taba and Kabesa following the flood. Efforts to restore normalcy have been ongoing, with the main highway below the Royal Bodyguard (RBG) colony now reopened and some areas within the RBG colony cleaned. Floodwaters in the RBG premises have been diverted to safer locations, and displaced residents are currently staying in the RBG mess building. Complete debris removal is expected to take a few more days.
The National Centre of Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) suggested that the flood might have been caused by a convective thunderstorm. Such storms, characterized by towering cumulonimbus clouds, involve strong updrafts and downdrafts that can lead to intense, localized rainfall. An official from the investigation team indicated that a cloudburst—a sudden, intense rainfall event—could be the cause of the flooding.
Residents shared their harrowing experiences. Dechen Tshomo, a longtime resident of Dechencholing, described her fear during the disaster. “Nothing like this has ever happened in over 20 years I’ve lived here. I was terrified,” she said. Although her belongings were damaged, she was relieved that her family was safe.
Chimi Dorji recounted a narrow escape with his children. “When I saw the flood, I immediately got my two younger children outside. We stayed on the roof for about 10 minutes before finding a safer place,” he said.
Langa Phuntsho, a local scrap dealer, reported losing valuable items and Nu 400,000 in cash. “I am worried about my future, but I trust that His Majesty and the government will support us,” he expressed.
Karma Tshering, a shop owner, faced substantial losses including damaged merchandise worth Nu 150,000 and Nu 120,000 in cash. Despite his challenges, he remains hopeful after receiving assurances from officials about forthcoming assistance. “We need a temporary shelter for now,” he said.
The flood’s impact has been profound, but the collective spirit of Bhutanese unity continues to shine through as the community and authorities work together to rebuild and recover.
