October 08: The people of Dhur under Chokhor gewog in Bumthang are eagerly waiting for power supply. Electricity is likely to reach this village only in 2009.

Namgay , the residents of Dhur village under Choekhor gewog said in the absence of electricity supply, he has resorted to an alternative, solar power.

The gadget, which he bought three years ago, cost him Nu. 8,000. While Namgay’s investment in the solar panels enables him to illuminate his house, he knows electricity in the village would be far more beneficial.

The day ends and dusk approaches. While residents like Namgay use the solar powered bulbs to illuminate their homes, for Jangchhub, who is 25 years old, she has to find her way in the dark with the help of kerosene.

The Tshogpa of Dhur, Pem Tshering tells us that electricity could reach his village by 2009. But Bhutan Power Corporation officials say it could take longer.

But when the last pole and wires are strung and electricity reaches Dhur, Jangchub will have to bid good bye to her kerosene lamp. And like in many homes in rural and urban Bhutan, life will become easier.