August 25: Gamrichu in Trashigang is still posing a threat to the lives of students and teachers of the Rangjung Vocational Training Institute (VTI) with the water level not showing signs of subsiding.

With plenty of rain, the level of the Gamrichu in Trashigang is continuing to be a source of concern for the Rangjung VTI.

The authorities have put in place several precautionary and preventive measures in light of the situation.

On the July 26 and July 31, heavy rains led to the swelling of the Gamrichu. The Rangjung VTI lost 100 metres of river protection embankment.

Principal Kinley Penjore says an excavator and a truck were hired to carry out river protection works. The work has been due to lack of availability of boulders.

Last month’s flood also affected part of a parapet at the back of the carpentry workshop building. Our reporter Dorji Dema says the remaining parapet has developed cracks.

This is the second time that the carpentry workshop building at Ranjung VTI is being damaged.

In 2004, almost half of this same building was washed away by flood.

Today eight students study furniture making and use the carpentry workshop building for practical sessions.

The Principal said the Institute have not been able to shift the students due to lack of classrooms. He said efforts are being taken to ensure the safety of the students. Teachers and staff maintain vigil during the night, working on rotation.

At present the institute has 187 students taking up certificate courses in electrical, computer hardware and furniture making.