Bhutan - More than 3,400 houses damaged

UPDATE: The number of injured from the earthquake on Sunday has risen to nine. The quake damaged more than 3,400 houses, 12 dzongs, 220 other historical monuments and 63 education centres.

The earthquake also damaged 20 Gups offices, 15 RNR centres and a hospital and 11 Basic Health Units.

Of more than 3,400 houses damaged as of today, 1,491 were reported in Paro.

The Ta Dzong or the National Muesuem in Paro suffered minor damages. 52 lhakhangs and 19 chortens were also damaged in the dzongkhag.

In the capital Thimphu, the 6.9 magnitute earthquake caused numerous cracks to the Tashichhoedzong. The Utse of Lingshi Dzong and the Dungkhag office were completely damaged while half of the Lam’s residence collapsed. Three lhakhangs in Thimphu have also been damaged.

In Punakha 544 houses were damaged. The Puna Dewai Chenpoi Phodrang and the Talo Dzongs suffered numerous cracks. Besides, 30 lhakhangs, 11 chortens, nine educational centres, three Gup’s office, a basic Health Unit and a RNR centre have been damaged.

478 houses were damaged in Wangduephodrang. The Dzong and the Nyzergang Lhakhang developed numerous cracks.

31 lhakhangs, seven chortens, 25 educational centres, six Gup’s offices, five RNR offices and two Basic Health Units suffered damages.

Haa reported the maximum number of injuries. Of the eight injured in Sunday’s quake, four of them are undergoing treatment at the National referral Hospital. In terms of structural damages, several houses have been damaged.

Chhukha reported one casualty leaving another one injured. 130 houses were damaged. These include houses in Phuentsholing and Tshimalakha.

The Chhukha dzong, nine lhakhangs, 7 chortens, 4 educational centres, the Chhukha hospital, three Basic health Units and RNR Centres and a Gup’s office were also damaged.

In Samtse 73 houses, 3 lhakhangs, 4 education centres, 3 gups offices and a RNR centre was damaged. An injury case was also reported.

In Gasa, 115 houses, the dzong, two lhakhangs, three chortens, an educational centre, a Gup’s office, a Basic Health Unit and a RNR Center were also damaged.

117 houses were damaged in Dagana, along with the dzong, two lhakhangs, five chortens, five Gup’s offices, three educational centres, two RNR Centres and a Basic Health Unit.

Over in Trashigang, 214 houses, six lhakhangs, an educational centre and a Basic Health Unit was damaged.

Trashiyangtse reported of 111 houses that were damaged. The dzong, three lhakhangs and five educational centres also suffered damages.

In the other dzongkhags of Trongsa, Bumthang Zhemgang, Sarpang, Samdrupjongkhar Tsirang and Pema gatshel, a total of 137 houses were damaged. This does not include the Trongsa and Zhemgang dzongs.

A total of 22 lhakhangs, six chortens, 11 educational centres, two basic Health Units and a Gup’s Office were also damaged in these Dzongkhags.

This is only the preliminary report and the Department of Disaster Management is still in the process of compiling detailed reports.

Bhutan - Yet to be vetted for domestic air service

11 September, 2011 - The department of civil aviation (DCA) has not yet approved the national airline’s ATR aircraft from performing test flights at Yonphula airstrip in Trashigang.

DCA director general, Phala Dorji said outside experts have been called in to study whether the ATR 42-500 can safely be operated to Yonphula, and Batpalathang airstrip in Bumthang.

The study will focus on the runway lengths of the two airstrips, and the take off and landing lengths required by the ATR aircraft. The runway length for Batpalathang and Yonphula are 1,200m and 1,300m respectively.

Calculating take off and landing lengths requires a number of factors to be taken into consideration, such as altitude, weight of aircraft, temperature, wind speed and direction, among others.

According to information on the ATR manufacturer’s website, the aircraft with a full load of 48 passengers, each weighing 95kg, will require 990m to take off at sea level. This required length increases as airport altitude increases. For instance, at 3,000ft and take off under same weight increases to 1,163m, according to the manufacturer. The same concept applies to landing length required.

With both Batpalathang and Yonphula situated at around 8,500ft, the ATR will have to operate by carrying less than full capacity to safely operate within the two airstrip’s runway lengths. This means flying with less passengers.

This practice, referred to as weight penalty in aviation terms, is also used at Paro airport for any kind of aircraft.

DCA will base its approval on the results of the study conducted by foreign expertise. Phala Dorji said the agency would have to be thoroughly “convinced” prior to approving any test flights.

Drukair CEO Tandin Jamso said the airline is confident of the ATR’s ability to handle the country’s domestic airstrips. He pointed out that ATR officials, who will perform the first test flights, were also confident that the aircraft would safely operate on both airstrips. He added that, if there were risk, the manufacturer itself would not conduct such an activity, as it would hurt their reputation.

He added that no airline would invest in equipment if it would not be able to perform at airports or airstrips it would eventually be using.

Meanwhile, DCA has also instructed Drukair to store spare parts to prevent lengthy groundings of its ATR. The length of the groundings was primarily due to transportation of spare parts from abroad. The aircraft was grounded almost the entire month in August.

According to DCA, the three consecutive technical problems were not major safety issues. DCA reiterated that the 9-year-old ATR aircraft had passed audit inspections prior to purchase by Drukair and is in good condition.

By Gyalsten K Dorji

Bhutan - Yonphula passes test flight

5 September, 2011 - With a test flight successfully landing and taking off from Yonphula, Trashigang, yesterday, Bhutan’s first domestic airstrip is now open for scheduled flight operations, says the department of civil aviation (DCA).

Using a 10-seater propeller aircraft, DCA and Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) officials conducted the first ever fixed-winged air operation into the Yonphula airstrip yesterday morning. Only Indian Air Force helicopter landings have taken place at the airstrip prior.

The flight was conducted by DCA and Aerothai to test communications gear set up at Yonphula, as well as Batpalathang airstrip in Bumthang.

While the test flight did not land at the Batpalathang airstrip, communications procedure for aircraft flying within the three airstrips in Bhutan have now been established, according to DCA. Batpalathang airstrip, although scheduled to be completed this month contractually, may likely only be ready in October.

DCA director general, Phala Dorji, who was a member of the test flight, said it was conducted also to address public doubt about the safety of Yonphula airstrip. Public concerns regarding the foggy and windy environment, presence of hillocks at one end of the airstrip have occasionally surfaced.

“There’s no problem when it comes to safety,” said Phala Dorji.

On the fog and wind factor, he said that flights would be allowed to operate only when these conditions are absent, such as early morning. With a flight time of 30 minutes from Paro, and 15 minutes from Bumthang, he said that airlines can operate 3-4 flights in the morning to Yonphula. He also said that, if fog or wind conditions arose during a flight into Yonphula, it would be simply be diverted by Yonphula air traffic control. He pointed out that such weather conditions were only present during summer, and not winter, months.

Phala Dorji said that the hillocks are not an issue. While the hillocks have been partially demolished, he said, they would be completely removed at a later date. He attributed lack of funds for not completely demolishing the two hillocks.

While DCA used a smaller aircraft to demonstrate safety of Yonphula, national airline Drukair will be using a much larger 48-seater ATR 42-500. The national airline is still awaiting DCA’s approval to use this larger aircraft. DCA said that Drukair must submit all technical data from its own test flights to demonstrate that the aircraft is feasible for Yonphula and Batpalathang.

Tashi Air, which expects its aircraft only in October, will be operating a much smaller aircraft, similar to the one used yesterday.

Based on information available, launching of scheduled domestic air services may take place only in October.

Bhutan - Fifth grounding in three months

29 August, 2011 - For at least the fifth time, in less than three months, a technical problem has grounded Drukair’s ATR aircraft yet again.

A leak in the ATR 42-500’s hydraulic system is the latest technical problem to plague the twin turbo propeller aircraft. “As per engineering department, ATR is having hydraulic break system leak,” said Drukair CEO, Tandin Jamso. He acknowledged that the problem was serious enough to ground the 48-seater aircraft. The hydraulic system is required, among others, to utilise the aircraft’s wheel brakes.

The aircraft is expected to be grounded until Wednesday, according to the CEO. Spare parts from the USA are scheduled to arrive on that day.

The last grounding, which lasted for five days and ended only a week ago, was also because of a technical problem. The ATR’s de-icing boot on one of its wings required replacing after it was found ruptured. The de-icing boot is a rubber device on the front surface edge of aircraft wings that allow for mechanical de-icing. The front surface edge of an aircraft is an area, where ice is likely to form and disrupt airflow, which can lead to loss of control.

A damaged wheel bearing in its nose landing gear grounded the ATR for about two weeks, earlier this month. The entire nose landing gear had to be shipped to Singapore for repair.

Prior to this, the ATR required two more groundings to prevent the airline’s only two pilots qualified to fly the aircraft, from exceeding permitted flying hours.

The ATR was inducted into the Drukair fleet in mid-June after another two-week delay, for painting purposes, according to the airline.

On whether the national airline is concerned with the recent spate of technical problems, Tandin Jamso, pointed out that the airline considers the ATR still in “good condition” and “fairly new”. He said that the aircraft, despite its age of nine years, had flown a little more than 3,300 hours. Drukair’s airbus jets fly that amount in one year, he added.

The ATR, which previously was used by the French Polynesian government of Tahiti as a VIP aircraft, had been parked most of the time, said Tandin Jamso, adding that as a result, such “unforeseen” technical issues were bound to arise. He compared it to a car parked in the garage for a long time.

Prior to purchasing the aircraft, a technical examination by foreign experts had been carried out, said Tandin Jamso. He added that all technical checks as required by regulations had been conducted. Similarly, the French Polynesian government, in a previous email interview with Kuensel, said that an independent team had conducted a technical check of the aircraft prior to sale.

Tandin Jamso said that Drukair engineers also carry out daily checks and maintenance of Drukair aircraft. The low hydraulics fluid level was discovered during such a check, he said, leading to the discovery of a damaged pipe.

The CEO said that the series of recent technical problems are simply coincidences and bad luck.

One of Drukair’s airbus jets was also grounded for a number of days this month after an unusual bird strike. Following the incidents, the airline performed a three-day rimdro or prayer ceremony for its aircraft, employees, and other related matters. This is the ATR’s second grounding since the rimdro.

Tandin Jamso said that passengers do not have to expect scheduled flight disruptions, as both airbus jets are on hand.

The department of civil aviation did not comment on the grounding, given that the issue had not yet been filed with the authority, as it took place during the weekend.

By Gyalsten K Dorji

Bhutan - Royal wedding keeps boot makers busy

The royal wedding is around the corner. There is so much excitement. There is so much expectation. And this excitement and expectation is nowhere more apparent than at a small tailor shop in Chubachu, dealing in Tsholham.

Made from brocade and decorated with elaborate embroidery, the Tsholhams are traditional boots, worn at formal events and ceremonies.

The shop has been flooded with orders from high ranking officials, the monk body, civil servants and businessmen. Its employees are working round the clock to meet the deadline.

Jangchukla who owns the shop said “for the chipdrel (ceremonial) procession alone, we have received orders for hundred pairs of boots. We have also received orders from schools and dzongkhags. So we are busy at the moment.”

A pair of the ordinary traditional boots cost Nu.1,800. The price can go up to Nu.6,000 depending on the quality of the brocade used in making the boots and the complexity of the embroidery.

To cash in on the occasion, the shop is selling the ordinary boots at Nu.1,500 a pair.

So far they have received orders for more than 200 pairs.

Nawang Dendup, a teacher had come all the way from Lhuentse to have his feet measured and place the order. He is also buying for his friends.

“We cannot come to Thimphu to celebrate the wedding but we will be celebrating in our school. I bought 15 pairs. I think I will need more than that. I have placed orders for 20 more, which I will come to collect later.”

Meeting the ever growing demand is not going to be easy. The shop has nine employees. Working non-stop, they can make a pair of boots each in a day.

Bhutan - Can DCA do it?

Air Traffic Control 17 August, 2011 - The department of civil aviation (DCA) says that it is fully capable of taking over air traffic control (ATC) at Paro airport.

The department’s statement comes in the wake of a media report saying that sources from within the Indian air force (IAF), currently in charge of the air traffic controlling, and national airline, Drukair, are sceptical of DCA’s capacity to take over.

ATC is a service provided from the ground to aircraft flying in a tower’s designated airspace, or while on the ground. Information, such as approvals for landing or taking off, weather situation, and distance to other aircraft, among others, are provided.

Asked whether DCA is concerned by the scepticism, the agency’s director general, Phala Dorji said any scepticism is probably untrue. “Drukair and the IAF would never say such things.”

But he still added, “If at all this truly comes from them, then I’d have to express shock, knowing that we’ve trained and qualified air traffic controllers by ICAO standards.” The international civil aviation organisation (ICAO) is a UN agency that sets safety standards in international air transport.

The IAF has been in charge of civilian ATC at Paro airport ever since scheduled flight operations began in 1983. Currently, DCA has four trained air traffic controllers, but play an observer role in the control tower.

DCA has proposed to the communications ministry that it take over ATC duties at Paro airport. Dialogue is currently underway with GoI, according to DCA. A decision on the issue is expected shortly.

Phala Dorji explained the rationale behind the proposal. He said that as Paro airport is a civilian airport, the department is working towards transitioning service providers to civilian agencies.

“Given the small amount of traffic at Paro airport, it won’t be a difficult task for DCA controllers,” he pointed out.

He attributed Paro airport’s safety record to the IAF controllers, and said DCA was appreciative of their service.

The issue of Paro ATC was also highlighted during the communication ministry’s midterm review, last year.

Drukair CEO, Tandin Jamso, said he had no comment, as Drukair was not even aware of the ATC issue. He said Drukair had also not commented on the issue prior.

IAF also did not comment.

By Gyaltsen K Dorji

RUB to introduce programme in collaboration with Columbia

Friday, August 12, 2011

The Royal University of Bhutan (RUB), will collaborate with Earth Institute at the Columbia University in the US to introduce a Master’s Programme in Development Practices in the country. The programme will provide Bhutanese graduates the opportunity to pursue a two year degree course in sustainable development like poverty, health, resource optimisation, climate change and rural development.

They will also have the opportunity to exchange ideas on sustainable development with students from member countries of the consortium.

RUB is the 24^th member under the Earth Institute’s consortium of 23 universities.

A working group will be organised with representatives from RUB and the Earth Institute to review the curriculum and complete the process.

Paro International Airport - The First Choice Among Bhutan Tour Operators

Located at a whopping 7300 feet above sea level, Paro International Airport is perhaps one of the most elevated airports in the world. It is the first as well as the only aviation landing choice for Bhutan tour operators and visitors alike planning a Bhutan travel experience. Why you ask? Because Paro International Airport is Bhutan's only Airport. Surprised? We were too, but not for too long. After all, Bhutan is a really tiny kingdom and isn't known as the Land of Happiness for nothing.

Paro Airport and the Ultimate Bhutan Travel Experience

Your Bhutan travel experience, which provides you an unprecedented opportunity in cultural immersion not to mention an environment that is virtually pollution-free, commences even before you land at the Paro International Airport. On a bright sunny day, you will be serenaded by breath-taking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan mountain range of which Mt. Everest is an intrinsic part. The Bhutan tour operator with whom you have signed up to experience the real Bhutan in all its majestic and magnificent glory, will provide you precise aireal landmarks and tell you what to look for from your airplane window. The views may seem a tad intimidating but not to worry. Your flight crew has thousands of hours of flight experience and only the most competent pilots are assigned the critical responsibility of piloting aircrafts into Bhutan as we will illustrate in a moment.

A Blessing for all Bhutan tour Operators

Situated in a deep valley on the banks of the Paro river only six km from the city of Paro, which makes it very easy for all the Bhutan tour operators to meet and greet you punctually, the Airport is very sate-of-the-art with a runway that is 6445 feet long and paved with asphalt. The latest navigational gismos, radar technologies and CAT-3 systems not withstanding, the Bhutan government doesn't believe in taking any chances when it comes time to safeguard your safety. Flights are allowed to land only during the day when visibility is excellent. Flights are diverted to neighboring Airports in India at a moment's notice if weather conditions change rapidly and suddenly. After all, the peaks that surround the Paro International Airport at 18,000 feet high! As of October 2009, there were only eight pilots certified to land at Paro International Airport according to a report published in Travel &Leisure Magazine by American Express. To date, the flight safety record of Druc Air, which flies into the airport daily, has been stellar.

The Welcome Mat from Bhutan tour Operators

Regardless of the time of the day or year you fly into Paro International Airport, your Bhutan tour operator will be there to welcome you. It is a small Airport with only one terminal and four gates so you will be easy to spot and aren't going to get lost. Paro International Airport isn't simply your gateway to Mt. Everest but also a meaningful connection, a launching pad for your wonderful Bhutan trip.

Bhutan - His Majesty and Queen-to-be visit Lungtenzampa

His Majesty the King and Queen-to-be Jetsun Pema visited Lungtenzampa Middle Secondary School yesterday. They watched a variety show especially dedicated to them. His Majesty the King and Queen-to-be Jetsun Pema are both alumni of Lungtenzampa.

As they walked hand in hand along the school campus, they were greeted by messages written by the students. They also gave autographs to the staff and students of Lungtenzampa.

At the end of the programme, students sang a song of commitment to His Majesty the King, the country and the people.

His Majesty then interacted with the students after the programme. He told the students to always dream and to work hard towards achieving their dreams.

His Majesty the King studied in Lungtenzampa from 1989 to 1993.

Queen-to-be Jetsun Pema studied in Lungtenzampa from 2001 till 2005.

Bhutan - Big cat’s presence in Park bodes well

International Tiger Day 30 July, 2011 - That there are about 25-35 tigers roaming the jungles of the Royal Manas National Park alone showed the outcome of Bhutan’s conservation efforts.

This estimation was revealed yesterday as Bhutan joined the 13 tiger range countries to observe the International Tiger Day and raise awareness on the plight of the big cats in the wild.

Eighteen individual tigers were captured by the 176 camera traps that were set up in 88 camera stations for 5,280 nights. It covered the three ranges, Gomphu, Manas and Umling under the Manas Park.

The survey involved 60 forest personnel from the Royal Manas National Park, Wildlife Conservation Division and the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute of Conservation and Environment.

With an area of 1,057 km square, the park runs through Zhemgang, Sarpang and Pema Gyatshel including 34km square of Tingtibe area.

Conservation officials said all areas under forest cover in Bhutan are a potential tiger habitat, and that Bhutan has recorded the Royal Bengal Tiger ( Panthera tigris tigris) freely roaming the rugged mountain as high as 4200m.

Estimating the tiger population at the park, they said, sets the bench marks for future tiger conservation besides revealing the park’s conservation outcomes.

Wildlife Conservation Division’s chief forest officer Sonam Wangchuk said similar surveys would now be done in other parks to get a nationwide figure by 2013.

“The day is observed to create awareness about this gigantic animal, especially among the younger generation,” Sonam Wangchuk said.

An environmentalist since the ‘60s, Dasho Paljor J Dorji, who also gave a talk yesterday, said Bhutan has been looking after tigers since the ‘80s but was not publicly publicised.

“There wasn’t much money for tiger conservation but, of late, there’s more attention given to tigers,” he said. “But we shouldn’t allow foreigners to come and conduct studies.”

Although revered in Bhutan ever since Guru Rinpoche brought Buddhism by riding on the back of a flying tigress, the importance to tiger conservation began with legal support in 1995, when the Forests and Nature Conservation Act of Bhutan labelled the tiger as “totally protected.”

Since 2003, records with the conservation division showed that 543 livestocks were reported to be preyed on by the tiger to date.

For this, the division has to pay a compensation of Nu 2,352,250. So far Nu 2,293,000 has been paid off.

The day, which will be an annual event, was also marked with the launch of car stickers, a book on the White Belliied Heron by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature, prize distribution to winners of the painting competition on tiger conservation and talks by youth and student representatives.

“Tiger is the most important species in the ecosystem and, if they’re conserved, the rest in the ecosystem are taken care of,” an official from the conservation division said.

By Sonam Pelden

Bhutan Tour: A Miraculous and Pleasurable Journey

Bhutan "The land of Thunder Dragon" is a astonishing country in South Asia. Its ancient and rich culture grabs the attention of the visitors. The Himalayas makes nation more beautiful. Its amazing loveliness will make you speechless. Spiritual people of a country have simple and beautiful life and they always use to welcome their tourist with a welcome smile on their face. It is known for its marvelous landscape beauty, wonderful mountain peaks, beautiful art and architecture, striking wildlife, historical relics, etc. Travelers will enjoy a lot in between the breezy atmosphere of the place. On this journey you will feel like that you are in your own world.

The astounding attractions of Bhutan will make your trip more pleasurable. Thimpu and Paro valley are the two prime tourist's attractions of a nation. The miraculous and scenic beauty of these valleys will win the heart of visitors. Some other remarkable attractions which will you visit on your tour are: Ta Dzong, Folk Heritage Museum, Wangdiphodrang, Tongsa, Bumthang Valley, Mongar, National Museum of Bhutan, Lhuntse, Taktsang Monastery, Rinpung Dzong, Druguel Dzong, National Textile Museum, Chendebji Chorten, National Memorial Chorten, Bhutan Palaces and temples, etc. The tremendous monasteries will remind you about Buddhist time and their culture. One will also enjoy the different popular festivals like Crane Festival, Jambe Festival, and the Autumn Festivals.

Apart from all above sightseeing, you will also explore the exotic wildlife on your Bhutan Trips. The well-known wildlife destinations are: Jigme Dorji National Park, Royal Manas National Park, Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, Bomdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, Jigme Singye Wanchuck National Park, Thrumshingla National Park, Torsa Strict Nature Reserve, Khaling Neoli Wildlife Sanctuary, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, etc. tourists will also engage themselves for shopping. Shopping with hot and delicious food is must for a healthier and pleasant journey. The famous things which you will buy from the popular markets are: hand made textile, wooden products, carpets, metal jewelry, shawls, scarves, old coins, etc. You may also try different and unique traditional dress of a country made up of cotton.

Bhutan tours also offer you superb opportunity to experience the breathtaking adventurous sports. The nation is located on the mountains and valley of Himalayas range that's why it is the preeminent option for adventure lovers. Some popular exciting sports are: trekking, kayaking, rafting, day hikes, bicycling, mountain biking, rock climbing, etc.

After this miraculous journey you will love the place from the bottom of your heart. So come and spend your lovely vacations in between the green valleys, cool atmosphere, natural attractiveness and different culture of Bhutan.

Bhutan - UN unanimously adopts happiness as the Ninth MDG

The United Nations has adopted Bhutan’s proposal to include happiness as the Ninth Millennium Development Goal (MDG).

The proposal was adopted unanimously by the 193 member countries at the UN headquarters in New York yesterday.

Speaking to the media today, the Prime Minister Lyonchhoen Jigmi Y. Thinley said this is a significant achievement for Bhutan.

Bhutan’s proposal to include “Happiness: towards a holistic approach to development” was made by the Prime Minister at the 65th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York last year.

The adoption of the proposal means happiness has been officially placed on the agenda of the United Nations. It is a fitting tribute to Bhutan’s development philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH).

It will provide an opportunity for the international community to explore alternative measures for addressing well-being and social progress in their national policies and programmes.

The reasoning is that since happiness is the ultimate desire of every individual, it must also be the purpose of development to create the enabling conditions for happiness.

The Prime Minister said Bhutan will continue to provide leadership in the development of the concept, implementation, and promotion and translate happiness in terms of public policy among the members of the UN family.

At the regional level, Bhutan was successful in incorporating the GNH philosophy as part of the Ulaanbaatar Declaration in April this year. The declaration was further considered and adopted by the 67th session of the UNESCAP in May this year.

Bhutan will host an international conference on GNH in August where participants from diverse backgrounds will share their interpretations of happiness.

Cr : bbs.com.bt

Bhutan - His Majesty graces graduate convocation

His Majesty the King advised graduates from colleges under the Royal University of Bhutan who are attending their convocation to aim high, use time wisely and work with wisdom and courage.

This is the first joint convocation to be held for graduates from various colleges under the university. In the past, the convocations were held separately with the graduates travelling to their respective colleges to attend the ceremony.

His Majesty the King, who is also the Chancellor of the Royal University of Bhutan, was accompanied by the would-be Queen Jetsun Pema.

His Majesty asked the graduates to serve the country with dedication saying they can do much to ensure a better future for both themselves and the country.

One thousand and eighty eight university graduates of 2008, 2009 and 2010 attended the convocation.

The convocation ended with Tashi Moenlam from the Tsula Lopen of the Zhung Dratshang, the graduates and the faculty members of the member colleges.

cr: bbs.bt.com

Bhutan - His Majesty grants dhar and kabney to the Gups

His Majesty the King granted dhar and kabney to 190 Gups at the Tashichhodzong today. They are the first democratically elected Gups. A Press release from the Royal Office of Media says that the award of kabney to Gups by His Majesty is unprecedented and symbolises the importance and apolitical nature of the local government in the new governance era.

Speaking to the Gups, His Majesty said in the few years since 2008, we have conducted the general elections, adopted the constitution and formed the houses of parliament, constitutional bodies and the Supreme Court. His Majesty said today we have accomplished yet another milestone in establishing the first local governments under democracy. He said all the founding pillars of democracy in Bhutan have been laid so early in his reign as he fulfills the vision of his father of a vibrant democracy.

His Majesty said as a symbol of the independence and importance of local government, he is awarding them kabneys from the throne. “Local government is not the lowest level of government,” His Majesty said. He said it is the nearest and closest level of government for the people. For rural Bhutanese, local governments are indispensable avenues for participation in democracy and development. In the long run, the success of democracy in Bhutan His Majesty said will be determined by the success of local governments.

His Majesty added that the Gups might think that His Majesty have detailed their duties and responsibilities and the importance of local government but have said few words of felicitation and praise for their success in the elections. He said their work is yet to begin and praise will not solve any of the problems facing the people.

His Majesty said he will be the first to commend and praise their achievements, if, after five years he finds that the Gups have served their constituencies well, that they have worked hard and without prejudice and above all without hurting the sentiments of the people.

The Gups led by the Venerable Yangbi lopen of the central monastic body offered tashi moenlam prayers to His Majesty the King. The Gups said they felt privileged to have received such recognition from His Majesty the King. They will now serve for a term of five years. According to the Gyalpoi Zimpoen Dasho Penjore, Gup’s kabney like any other position-tied decorations can only be worn for the duration of the tenure.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Bhutan Treks - The Brokpa People and Their Legends

Eastern Bhutan is arguably one of the world's most beautiful regions - and it is home to the culturally unique Brokpa people, who live in Merak and Sakten. For almost two decades, Bhutan treks in that part of the country were not permitted by the government for undisclosed reasons - rumours alleged the desire to protect the Yeti - but the regions of Merak and Sakten are now open again. Bhutan treks there offer the truly memorable opportunity to meet these wonderful people.

Ethnically Unique

The Brokpas speak Sharchop, a different language to that spoken elsewhere in Bhutan - more noticeable to visitors on Bhutan treks, they dress uniquely. Brokpa people are easily recognised by their woven red jackets, often detailed with stitched animals, and curious black yak hats. These hats have five spidery legs, designed to channel rainwater away from the wearer's head and body. As befitting the name Brokpa, which can be translated to mean 'nomad' or 'herder', the people remain semi-nomadic yak herders, relying on the animal for clothing, food and transport. For anyone with an interest in minority ethnic groups and the preservation of traditional ways of living in an increasingly modern, homogenous world, Bhutan treks in Merak and Sakten are a must.

Aum Jono and the King's Demand

Like many Himalayan peoples, the Brokpa have a story of their origin. They moved to Bhutan many hundreds of years ago - according to them, this is because they once lived in Tibet, until a conflict with a ruler. This king demanded that his people remove the top of a mountain because it blocked the sun, covering his palace in shadow. One woman, Aum Jono, who did not think this ridiculous order should be obeyed, told her people that it was far easier to remove a head than a mountain-top. The Brokpas agreed. After killing the king, Aum Jono led them to safety and prosperity in eastern Bhutan. She is now revered as a protecting deity, with a festival held in her honour.

Brokpas and the Yeti

Anyone planning to go on Bhutan treks will surely have heard of the Yeti. To the Brokpas this creature is called Megay, and yak herders to this day report encountering Megay in high, thickly forested altitudes, typically when they have pursued a straying yak. According to their remarkable tales, the Megay consumes bamboo shrubs, is white or light red in colour, and smells of garlic. The Megay is not a curiosity, as it is to Westerners, but a guardian deity of remote mountainous regions - and the Brokpas accordingly treat it with respect.