Gelephu prepares for historic 108 Chorten construction

Bhutan is preparing for a major spiritual event in Gelephu Mindfulness City on November 1, where 108 Jangchub Chortens, each 15 metres tall, will be erected simultaneously along the Mau Chhu. The event is expected to draw more than 100,000 participants, including the Royal Family, government officials, and international guests, for a day of collective prayer.

To manage the large gathering, health authorities are implementing extensive emergency medical plans. The Central Regional Referral Hospital is coordinating the deployment of approximately 200 health service providers. Preparations include setting up a temporary 10-bed hospital at the Gyalsung Centre in Tareythang, equipped with diagnostic services such as X-ray and ultrasound.

Emergency response measures include eight ambulances staffed by doctors and nurses to cover the stupa site, as well as advanced cardiac life support units at Zeeray. Authorities are also stocking essential medicines and preparing walkie-talkies provided by the World Health Organization to ensure communication if mobile networks become congested. Additionally, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen visited the site to oversee these preparations and attended the groundbreaking ceremony for Hatisar School.