Kargang Township of Jomda County in Chamdo

Kagong Township (卡贡乡) is located in the southern part of Jomda County (江达县), Chamdo Prefecture (昌都市), Tibet Autonomous Region, China. It borders Niangxi Township (娘西乡) to the east, Qingnidong Township (青泥洞乡) to the south, Zigar Township (字嘎乡) to the west, and Jomda Town (江达镇) to the north. The township is situated 23 kilometers away from the county seat. Kagong Township covers an administrative area of 677.74 square kilometers. By the end of 2019, the township had a registered population of 5,109 people.

Historical Background

Kagong Township was established in 1959. In 1970, it was reorganized into a commune, and the township structure was reinstated in 1984. In 1987, it became Kagong District, which included Kagong Township, Chesu Township (车所乡), and Dase Township (达瑟乡). In 1988, the district was dissolved, and Kagong Township was re-established. By June 2020, Kagong Township included four administrative villages.

Geographic and Environmental Features

Location and Terrain

Kagong Township is located in the southern part of Jomda County. It is bordered by Niangxi Township (娘西乡) to the east, Qingnidong Township (青泥洞乡) to the south, Zigar Township (字嘎乡) to the west, and Jomda Town (江达镇) to the north. The total administrative area is 677.74 square kilometers.

Kagong Township’s terrain is varied, with high mountains, deep valleys, and numerous ravines. The average altitude is around 3,200 meters.

Climate

Kagong Township has a plateau semi-arid warm climate. The lowest temperature recorded is -20°C, and the highest reaches 26°C, with an annual average temperature of around 25°C. The area receives 350-450 mm of rainfall per year.

Hydrology

The primary river in Kagong Township is the Lancang River (澜沧江), which runs through the area, significantly influencing its ecology and agriculture.

Population and Ethnicity

As of the end of 2011, the total population of Kagong Township was 4,393 people, with the majority belonging to the Tibetan ethnic group. By the end of 2019, the registered population had increased to 5,109 people.

Economy

General Overview

Kagong Township’s economy is mainly based on agriculture and animal husbandry. In 2011, the township’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 46.05 million yuan, and the per capita net income for farmers and herders was 3,958 yuan. By 2019, the township had 3 comprehensive stores or supermarkets larger than 50 square meters.

Agriculture and Livestock

The agricultural activities in Kagong Township mainly involve the cultivation of barley, peas, wheat, potatoes, and other crops. The township also engages in animal husbandry, primarily raising yaks, goats, sheep, cattle, and horses. The local nomadic lifestyle involves the seasonal migration of livestock across four pastures, following the traditional practices of winter, spring, summer, and autumn pastures.

Infrastructure and Social Services

Transportation

By the end of 2011, all four village committees and 22 natural villages in Kagong Township had access to paved roads. The 317 National Road (317国道) crosses the township, providing an essential transportation route.

Education

As of the end of 2011, Kagong Township had two schools, including a township center school and other local institutions. The educational infrastructure serves the local children, and the township ensures that all students benefit from the national education policy.

Healthcare

The township has a health clinic, with a 100% participation rate in the New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme. By the end of 2011, there were healthcare workers in each of the villages, and the township also equipped its health facilities with medical transportation.

Social Welfare

Kagong Township provides social welfare services, with 85% of residents covered by the new rural social pension insurance scheme by 2011. The township is also involved in rural development projects, such as improving housing conditions and providing pensions for elderly residents.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Origin of the Name

Kagong Township derives its name from a local dialect term “Kagong,” which was used by the People’s Liberation Army during their entry into Tibet in the 1950s.

Scenic and Cultural Attractions

Mani Stones at Mani Chayi (玛尼查益)

Located in the southern part of the township, Mani Chayi features a collection of around 2,000-3,000 engraved stones inscribed with Buddhist scriptures, including the “Ganjur” (甘珠尔) and “Danjur” (旦珠尔). The area also has eight white stupas surrounded by prayer flags, and it is a site with spiritual and cultural importance.

Guomei Hot Springs (郭美泉)

Guomei Hot Springs, situated 15 kilometers east of the township government office, offer a unique attraction. With three main pools, the hot springs range in size and temperature from 50 square meters at 100°C to smaller pools at about 10°C. These hot springs provide a relaxing experience for visitors and are an excellent example of the local natural resources.

Recognition and Honors

In February 2022, Kagong Township was included in the list of candidates for the 2021 Tibet Autonomous Region Ecological Civilization Construction Demonstration Township, recognizing its efforts toward sustainable development and environmental conservation.