When Landslides Break Paths, People Build Bridges of Collective Action
In Gona village, located in the Bhilangana block of Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, the terrain is not just mountainous, it’s layered with the everyday risks of landslides and broken access. One such event damaged the main footpath connecting two villages, used daily by schoolchildren and elderly residents alike.
With no government budget allocated for repair, the danger persisted until the people took charge.
The Jan Milan Kendra, A Meeting Place Without Safety
Another issue surfaced during the village meeting: the Jan Milan Kendra, the central gathering place for meetings and decisions, lacked a boundary wall. The space had no seating or safety for women, children, or elders during public meetings.
The community envisioned a wall that could serve a dual purpose, ensuring safety while offering a place to sit.
Broken Footpath Before Community Repair
Shramdaan in Action: 283 Villagers Join Hands
From 9th to 12th August 2024, a three-day shramdaan event was organised through Goonj’s Cloth for Work initiative. Over 280 villagers , men and women , participated, pooling strength, time, and local resources.
“There was no funding. But we had each other. That was enough,” shared a resident.
Women Carried Stones, Men Built Foundations
To rebuild the broken path:
- Women walked 2–3 km carrying heavy stones and sand.
- Men laid the foundation, placing stones and cementing a 20 ft long, 5 ft high wall to make the path safe again.
Building a Safer Jan Milan Kendra Together
Once the footpath was restored, the team turned to the boundary wall for the Jan Milan Kendra. The Gram Pradhan provided 10 sacks of cement, and once again:
- Women transported raw materials from long distances.
- Men mixed and laid cement to complete the wall.
Villagers Constructing Jan Milan Kendra Boundary Wall
Outcomes Rooted in Dignity and Ownership
This wasn’t about waiting for relief , it was about reclaiming dignity.
- Over 280 participants solved two major access issues with local leadership.
- Children now walk safely to school.
- The Jan Milan Kendra is now a space of inclusion and comfort.
The wall they built is more than stone and mortar. It’s a symbol of resilience.
Cloth for Work: More Than Material
Goonj’s Cloth for Work initiative enabled the community to address long-standing gaps, not through charity, but through collective effort. In return for their work, participants received material kits from Goonj, not as aid, but as a symbolic acknowledgement of their contribution.
This story from Gona village reminds us: when communities lead, solutions last.
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
Completed Infrastructure After CFW Initiative
Be a Part of Change
Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
