Sertung Village is nestled within the scenic landscapes of Ruby Valley Rural Municipality, situated in Dhading, Nepal, at an elevation of 1950 meters (6,435 feet). This picturesque village is located approximately 135 kilometers away from the bustling heart of Kathmandu. The local administrative landscape has undergone a transformation, consolidating Tipling VDC, Sertung VDC, and Lapa VDC into the cohesive entity now known as Ruby Valley Rural Municipality. The moniker “Ruby Valley” finds its origins in the presence of the precious gemstone “Ruby,” an emblem of the region’s natural wealth. Notably, the Ruby Valley, nestled within the embrace of the Ganesh Himal Region, stands as Nepal’s preeminent locale for the discovery of the finest “Ruby Stone.”
Culturally, Sertung Village stands as a tapestry interwoven with the vibrant traditions of Tamang, Gurung, Ghale, Newar, and Dalit communities. At the heart of this cultural mosaic lies the Shree Chyamra Devi Secondary School, established in the year 2034 B.S. (1977 AD). This educational institution serves as a haven for 407 students, ranging from Grade 1 to Grade 10.
However, a stark reality casts a shadow over this educational sanctuary’s history. Astonishingly, in its five decades of existence, the school had never possessed adequate restroom facilities, barring a diminutive single-room lavatory that was woefully insufficient for the needs of over 500 individuals. The absence of separate facilities for gentlemen and ladies further compounded this challenge. It was within this context that the notion of a toilet project took root – a project that would leave an indelible mark on the school and the lives of the more than 50,000 individuals who utilize it annually with modern facilities like enough running water, wall-to-wall tiled and sanitary disposal pit.
Responding to this critical need, the Rotary Club of The Himalayan Gurkhas embarked on a monumental endeavor. With the invaluable financial support from Rotary International (RI) and The Rotary Foundation (TRF), a transformative feat was accomplished: a comprehensive, 10-room restroom facility crafted from robust concrete, designed to be inclusive for differently-abled individuals as well. The significance of this initiative reverberates through the annals of Sertung village, within Ruby Valley Rural Municipality, Dhading, Nepal, leaving an enduring imprint on the edifice of Shree Chyamra Higher Secondary School.
The realization of this project was a testament to the synergistic efforts of diverse stakeholders. The collaborative spirit of the Local Government, the authority of Ward # 3, the School Management Committee, the resolute School Principal and dedicated educators, parents, and the expansive network of RI District 3292, alongside Rotary Club of Hamakita, Japan and the esteemed local host club – Rotary Club of The Himalayan Gurkhas coalesced to bring this transformative vision to fruition.
The project was headed by Rtn. Major Bhim Bahadur Gurung, MVO, MBE and local coordinator was Rtn. Kul Bahadur Gurung. And Rtn. Kajuko Nakano was the focal person from RC Hamakita, Japan. Total cost of the project was NPR. 9,573,421.13 received from RC Hamakita, RI District 21484, Japan through Rotary International (RI). The school caters to a total of 407 students, comprising 125 female students and 282 male students. The student body represents a diverse tapestry of communities, including Tamang, Gurung, Newar, Ghale, and Dalit (Blacksmith) backgrounds.
Dhading Besi serves as the administrative headquarters of Dhading district, positioned approximately 75 km away and requiring a 3-hour drive from the capital city, Kathmandu. The journey from Dhading Besi to Kimtang Phedi (In 2019 AD) is extended to 5 hours when utilizing local jeeps and trucks just for 27km. Subsequently, accessing the project site mandates a challenging trek of at least 2 ½ days on foot. These transportation limitations pose significant hurdles to our construction efforts.
The roadways remain accessible for only six months each year, largely due to the formidable monsoon season. Negotiating the peculiarities of transporting construction materials exacerbates the situation, impeding the mobilization of local laborers and mules alike. The harsh combination of monsoon rains, landslides, muddied trails, river crossings, leeches, rockfalls, and the scarcity of adept workers and technicians well-versed in functioning within such a demanding geographic terrain, collectively present an incredibly daunting scenario for the project committee.
The project was completed with construction of 5 ladies’ and 5 gents’ toilet rooms. This encompasses a accessible toilet and waste disposal pits. Communication hurdles stemming from intermittent telephone network connectivity had been a persistent issue. Moreover, addressing on-site medical emergencies and fostering a comprehensive comprehension of the project’s significance among the local populace were additional critical challenges on the ground.
A heartfelt expression of gratitude extended to Mrs. Mariko Muramatsu from Japan, whose unwavering commitment played a pivotal role in the success of this project. Her selfless dedication was instrumental in fostering coordination, cooperation, and seamless communication between the members of RC Hamakita and the Rotary Club of The Himalayan Gurkhas. Mrs. Muramatsu’s voluntary visits to Nepal, undertaken numerous times to oversee the project’s progress, along with her tireless efforts in meticulous documentation, both from Nepal and Japan, have been invaluable contributions to the realization of this endeavor.
Special acknowledgments are extended to the board members of Rotary Club of The Himalayan Gurkhas, whose strategic guidance and unwavering commitment were instrumental in the success of this project. The project committee members also merit recognition for their dedicated efforts, as their meticulous planning and execution played a crucial role in bringing this initiative to fruition.
Special gratitude is extended to Rtn. Bil Bahadur Gurung from RC Hamakita, Japan; whose involvement and support significantly contributed to the project’s realization. His collaborative efforts bridged distances and fostered unity in purpose.
Equally deserving of appreciation are the local individuals who lent their support on the ground. Their collective efforts were essential in overcoming challenges and ensuring the project’s smooth progression. It is their dedication and involvement that have transformed the vision into a tangible reality.
