Changlung Township of Kamba County in Shigatse

Changlong Township (昌龙乡) is located in the southwestern part of Kamba County (岗巴县) in Shigatse (日喀则市), Tibet Autonomous Region. The township covers an area of 740.78 square kilometers and is home to a population of 2,194 people (as of 2017), all of whom are Tibetan.

Geography and Location

Geographical Setting

Changlong Township is situated in the southwestern part of Kamba County, approximately 21 kilometers south of Gamba Snow Mountain (岗巴雪山). The average altitude of the township is 4,700 meters (15,420 feet) above sea level. This region is characterized by harsh climatic conditions, with wind and sandstorms lasting for 5 months each year. The area is predominantly rocky and barren, with limited vegetation.

Climate

Due to its high-altitude location, Changlong experiences an extreme plateau climate, which means the weather is cold and windy, with minimal rainfall and sparse vegetation.

History

Historical Development

Changlong Township was first established in 1960. It was restructured as a commune in 1974, reverted back to a township in 1984, and later merged with Linga Township (林嘎乡) in 1988.

Administrative Division

Villages and Communities

As of 2024, Changlong Township administers the following 7 village committees and 16 natural villages:

  • Na Village (乃村)

  • Tiebugong Village (铁布公村)

  • Linga Village (林嘎村)

  • Pu Village (普村)

The township government is based in Zaxi Gang (扎西岗), which means “Auspicious Hill” in Tibetan.

Population

Demographics

The population of Changlong Township is 2,194 people (as of 2017), all of whom are Tibetan. The township has a rural, agricultural and pastoral community, with a focus on livestock farming and crop production.

Social Development and Community Projects

Rural Economy

Changlong Township operates a dual economy focusing on both agriculture and animal husbandry. The main crops grown include barley, wheat, and rapeseed, while the primary livestock raised include yak, sheep, and goats.

Infrastructure Development

The township has established rural roads connecting various villages, facilitating the movement of goods and people.

Education and Healthcare

Changlong has a primary school and a health clinic to serve the local community. These institutions are vital for improving education and healthcare access in the region.

Ecological and Environmental Protection

To protect the environment, Changlong Township began implementing eco-protection policies in 2013, including the cancellation of the policy that allowed villagers to collect up to 50 pounds of firewood per person each year. This initiative was aimed at reducing environmental degradation and promoting sustainable practices.

In 2015, the township organized a “Beautiful Changlong – Clean Home” (美丽昌龙·家园清洁) cleanup campaign, where residents gathered to clean the area and burn the collected waste to improve the village’s cleanliness.

Notable Contributions and Honors

Contributions to the Military

The villagers of Na Village (乃村) have shown tremendous support for the local military garrison. For over 40 years, a resident named Laji (拉吉) has led efforts to carry water to the soldiers stationed in the area. She also welcomes new soldiers arriving at the base and sends off retiring soldiers each year with butter tea (酥油茶). Both Na Village and Pu Village (普村) have regular teams that provide water to the military during the harsh winter months.

Recognition and Honors

  • In 1997, Laji was awarded the “Model of Supporting the Military” (拥军优属模范个人) honor by the Ministry of Civil Affairs and the General Political Department.

  • In 2003, she received the “National Model for Supporting the Military” (全国拥军模范) title.

  • In 2007, Laji was named one of the Top Ten Patriotic Figures in the “Thank You, People — Inspiring the Military” campaign, marking the 80th anniversary of the military camps.

Scenic Spots

Cultural and Religious Sites

Changlong Township is home to Qudeng Nima Monastery (曲登尼玛寺), a Buddhist monastery located near 108 springs (泉眼), which are believed to have healing properties. The monastery is a significant cultural site for both locals and visitors.