Ayushi Katuwal, ECCA Counselor

The trip from Kathmandu to Dhading takes three to four hours, winding through beautiful landscapes that showcase Nepal’s rural charm. In Ward No. 2 of Benighat Rorang Rural Municipality, Dhading lies a village that feels peaceful and happy at first glance. But beneath the surface, it faces both progress and challenges. Compared to the villages I had visited in Chitwan’s Rapti Municipality Wards 12 and 13, Dhading seems more developed. Most homes have electricity, and transportation is better. However, power cuts, poor internet network connectivity, and roads that become impassable during the monsoon season remind us of the struggles villagers face daily.

At 1,500 meters above sea level lies Brusbang, a small village I had always seen from Rapti Municipality wards, marked by a tall internet network tower. I had imagined it to be a remote and uninhabited area, but I found a lively community overcoming daily hardships. During our journey, blocked roads forced us to walk for two hours. The steep climb left me dehydrated and exhausted, and I could only admire the resilience of the villagers who navigate these tough paths every day.

I visited Brusbang as part of an ECCA Camp, a program designed to teach students life skills and care for the environment. One of the most exciting activities was gardening, where we introduced students to planting and caring for crops.

Water is scarce in Brusbang, and villagers often spend four hours fetching it. Despite this, the children were eager to learn. We introduced them to a multipurpose water system, where the same water could be used for various needs like washing hands and watering plants. We planted a pear tree, a rose bush, and spinach together using this system. The students enjoyed every step, from digging the soil to carefully watering the plants. They were overjoyed when the spinach started sprouting and dreamed about the fruits and flowers they would harvest one day. One student said, “It’s amazing to see the plants grow. It feels like we’re creating something special.” To protect the garden, fencing is required around it.

This gardening activity was more than just planting, it was a lesson in resourcefulness and sustainability. The children began practicing the multipurpose water system at home, and their families followed suit. Soon, small gardens started appearing in many homes, turning a simple camp activity into a community-wide movement.

The garden we planted at the camp now stands as a symbol of hope and determination. It shows that even in tough conditions, life can thrive with creativity and care.

Brusbang is a place of contrasts, beauty and hardship, progress and challenges. Yet, its people show incredible resilience, finding ways to grow and improve despite the odds. Reflecting on my visit, I am reminded that small actions can create big changes. A single seed, a drop of water, and a community’s effort can sow resilience and growth.