World Water Day

River Cleaning Initiative – Commemorating World Water Day

In celebration of World Water Day, the Royal Government of Bhutan launched the Nationwide River Cleaning Initiative to promote the conservation and restoration of river ecosystems across the country.

As part of this national campaign, Punakha Dzongkhag conducted a large-scale river cleaning program focusing on the Phochhu and Mochhu rivers, which hold both cultural and ecological importance.

Cleaning Locations:

• Along the Mochhu River, starting near Goenshari Primary School

• Along the Phochhu River, starting from Wolathang Primary School

• Efforts extended downstream to the Punakha–Wangduephodrang border

Key Outcomes:

• Waste Collected: Over 8.5 metric tons of solid waste

• Participants: More than 650 individuals took part

Organizations Involved:

1. Government Agencies

   • Punakha Dzongkhag Administration

   • Royal Bhutan Police

   • Regional Office of the Department of Surface Transport

   • Wangdue Forest Division

   • Park Range Office, Jigme Dorji National Park

2. Gewogs

   • All 11 Gewogs under Punakha Dzongkhag

3. Schools and Institutions

   • Punakha Central School

   • Khuruthang Middle Secondary School

   • Ugyen Academy

   • Tashidingkha Higher Secondary School

   • Kabesa Central School

   • Khuruthang Technical Training Institute

   • College of Natural Resources

4. Others

   • DeSuung Office

   • Business communities of Khuruthang and Lobesa

   • Rafting Companies

   • Taxi Association of Punakha

This collaborative initiative not only improved the physical environment but also fostered community spirit and environmental awareness. It highlighted the collective responsibility to protect Bhutan’s rivers and natural resources for future generations.