In Panchthar, a century-old community labour tradition lives on
Summary
Panchthar residents are reviving the century-old harguhar tradition, pooling unpaid labour to rebuild roads, bridges and other public infrastructure after floods and landslides. Communities across the district have cleared blocked routes, built temporary bridges and restored transport links when government help was too slow to arrive.
Key Points
- A century-old community labour tradition called harguhar remains active in Panchthar, especially after disasters damage roads and bridges.
- Residents in multiple wards have recently used voluntary labour to rebuild crossings, clear landslides and reopen transport routes.
- Local leaders and ward officials have mobilized volunteers through social media and community networks, with women and youth joining in large numbers.
- Villagers see the practice as both a practical disaster response and a continuing social tradition that predates modern machinery and communication.
