𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐔𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐬 𝟏𝟎-𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐞𝐲’𝐬 𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐦

…𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒐𝒏

By Kezang Choden

Gangtey Gewog in Wangduephodrang, known for its scenic landscapes and cultural significance, is facing increasing challenges from litter and waste pollution. The rising number of visitors, coupled with limited waste management infrastructure, has led to visible signs of improper waste disposal across the valley. Non-biodegradable materials such as plastics are scattered along popular hiking trails, roadsides, and even in the heart of the gewog.

Local officials and community members have expressed growing concern over the situation, warning that if left unaddressed, the pollution could cause lasting damage to Gangtey’s natural environment. Of particular concern is the impact on the endangered Black-Necked Crane, which migrates to the valley each winter. Considered sacred by locals, the cranes are highly sensitive to environmental changes, and pollution could disrupt their habitat.

The Gangtey Gewog administration is exploring ways to improve waste management and raise public awareness among residents and visitors. However, many stress that sustainable tourism practices are urgently needed to protect the valley’s fragile ecosystem and preserve it for future generations.

Namgyal Dorji, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Employment, acknowledged the growing waste concerns in Gangtey, a critical Ramsar site and one of Bhutan’s prominent tourist destinations. He noted that despite community-led efforts such as monthly cleaning campaigns and voluntary initiatives, the area continues to struggle with the increasing volume and complexity of waste. “The rapid growth of tourism, expansion of local businesses and population rise have further intensified this challenge,” he said.

Lyonpo Namgyal Dorji emphasized that preserving Gangtey is important not only for environmental reasons but also for its long-term socio-economic value. He added that the government is considering ways to strengthen waste management systems in ecologically sensitive areas and plans to work closely with local stakeholders to find sustainable solutions.

Kinley Gyeltshen, Gup of Gangtey Gewog, shared his deep concern over the growing waste problem affecting the once-pristine landscape. “It is disheartening to see our gewog gradually lose the charm it was known for. The waste is spreading across the valley and overshadowing the very beauty that drew tourists and pilgrims here,” he said.
Despite these challenges, the community has shown commitment to addressing the issue. Residents conduct monthly cleaning campaigns to control waste accumulation, and local tourism businesses, including hotels and guesthouses, have contributed to waste management efforts.

“We are grateful that tourism businesses are taking part in this shared responsibility. However, the scale of the waste problem is too large for community efforts alone,” said the Gup. He called for stronger support from relevant agencies and the tourism sector to establish sustainable waste management systems. He also highlighted the need for awareness programs and improved infrastructure to ensure proper disposal and recycling.

The growing waste problem poses environmental risks and threatens Gangtey’s tourism potential and the wellbeing of its community. The Gup urged all stakeholders to work together to protect the gewog’s environment, emphasizing that the natural beauty of Gangtey must not be compromised.

In response, the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment, together with the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources and other key stakeholders, is supporting the Gangtey-Phobji Ramsar Site Management Plan 2025–2034. This plan outlines long-term actions to address waste challenges and protect the area’s ecological integrity.

One of the first steps involves restructuring the Gangtey-Phobji Environmental Management Committee to improve coordination, clarify mandates, and strengthen monitoring of waste governance. Wangdue Phodrang Dzongkhag will oversee the construction of a sanitary landfill and the procurement of waste collection equipment such as a garbage truck and compactor. These measures aim to enhance the efficiency of waste transport, segregation, and disposal.

Public awareness and education will play a vital role in achieving sustainable waste management. Targeted campaigns using infographics, social media, and school programs will encourage responsible waste practices among residents, businesses, tourism providers, and visitors. Capacity building initiatives will empower women and youth to lead community-based waste reduction, composting, and recycling efforts.

To protect wetlands and groundwater, technical assessments will guide the installation of integrated sewage and wastewater treatment systems for businesses, homestays, and public facilities. Enforcement of waste regulations will be strengthened through monthly audits and regular inspections by the Environmental Management Committee. A color-coded disposal system will be introduced in public and commercial areas to promote waste segregation at the source.
The Ministry, through the Department of Tourism, continues to collaborate with hotels, village homestays, guides, and tour operators to maintain cleanliness in tourism hotspots. Clean-up campaigns are regularly organized along trekking routes and other popular destinations. Supported by the private sector, these initiatives seek to preserve Bhutan’s natural beauty and uphold its reputation as a clean and environmentally responsible destination.