More than 3,000 volunteers took part in the seventh Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) volunteer programme from August 28 to 30, contributing to landscaping, cleaning and environmental improvement works across the city.
His Majesty King Jigme, Her Majesty Queen Jetsun, and Their Royal Highnesses Prince Jigme Namgyel, Prince Ugyen Wangchuck and Princess Sonam Yangden visited the work sites and interacted with volunteers.The three-day programme covered Gelephu Old Town, the highway linking Gelephu International Airport with the town, and the site where 108 Jangchub Chortens are scheduled to be built on November 1, 2026. Volunteers cleared overgrown vegetation, removed invasive species, levelled roadsides and cleaned public areas.
The latest programme followed six previous rounds, with participation reaching about 17,000 during the fifth round.For the seventh round, GMC decided not to provide free lunch after volunteers said meal arrangements placed an unnecessary financial and logistical burden on the programme. Participants were encouraged to bring packed meals or eat at local restaurants and food courts.
GMC officials said affordable food options were available near the volunteer sites. Participants were also advised to bring appropriate work gear, including gloves, boots, raincoats, water bottles, insect repellent and basic tools.The volunteer programme continues to support the development and environmental improvement of Gelephu Mindfulness City through community participation.