Woinbodoi Township of Jomda County in Chamdo

Wangbuding Township is located in the northern part of Jomda County (江达县), Chamdo (昌都市), Tibet Autonomous Region (西藏自治区). The township borders Gangtuo Town (岗托镇) to the east, Dêrdoin Township (德登乡) to the west, and Degze County (德格县) to the north. To the south, it is adjacent to Dengke Township (邓柯乡). The township government is located in Wangbuding Village (汪布顶村), approximately 93 kilometers from the county seat of Jomda. With a total area of 1,171.73 square kilometers, Wangbuding Township had a registered population of 9,356 by the end of 2019.

Administrative History

  • 1960: Wangbuding Township was established.

  • 1970: It was restructured into Wangbuding People’s Commune.

  • 1984: The township system was reinstated, and Wangbuding became a township again.

  • 1989: Following a merger of administrative regions, Wangbuding Township was formed by combining Wangbuding, Zhugai Township (珠格乡), Laima Township (来马乡), Randeng Township (燃灯乡), and Kasongdu Township (卡松渡乡). It then became part of Jomda County.

As of June 2020, Wangbuding Township governs six administrative villages.

Administrative Structure

Wangbuding Township consists of the following six villages:

  1. Wangbuding Village (汪布顶村)

  2. Zhuoge Village (卓格村)

  3. Laima Village (来玛村)

  4. Randeng Village (然灯村)

  5. Chage Village (查格村)

  6. Kasongdu Village (卡松多村)

The township government is based in Wangbuding Village.

Geography and Climate

Geographical Features

Wangbuding Township is located in a mountainous and canyon-type landscape with an average altitude of 3,050 meters above sea level. The region is surrounded by high peaks and rugged terrain, adding to its natural beauty and remoteness.

Climate

The township experiences a plateau semi-arid warm climate, with temperatures ranging from a low of -20°C in winter to a high of 29°C in summer. This climate makes it a region with distinctive seasonal variations.

Hydrology

The Jinsha River (金沙江), a major watercourse in the area, flows through the northwestern part of the township, adding to its hydrological significance.

Population and Economy

Population

  • As of the end of 2011, Wangbuding Township had a total population of 8,475, with the majority being Tibetan.

  • By 2017, the permanent population had increased to 9,164.

  • As of 2018, the registered population stood at 9,166.

  • By 2019, the registered population reached 9,356.

Economy

Wangbuding Township’s economy is primarily based on agriculture and livestock farming.

In 2011, the per capita income of farmers and herders was 2,060 RMB. The township had three industrial enterprises and four general stores or supermarkets with an area of over 50 square meters by 2019.

Agriculture and Livestock

  • Agriculture: Wangbuding Township has 16,678 acres of arable land and 935,000 acres of grassland. The main crops grown include peas, potatoes, and wheat.

  • Livestock: Livestock farming is an important economic activity, with yaks, sheep, and horses being the primary animals raised. By 2011, the township had a livestock population of 33,642.

Infrastructure and Social Development

Transportation

By the end of 2011, all six village councils and 29 natural villages in Wangbuding Township were accessible by cement roads. The 317 National Highway (317国道) passes through the township, providing important connectivity to neighboring regions.

Education and Healthcare

  • Education: By the end of 2011, Wangbuding Township had one central school, one affiliated elementary school, and six teaching points.

  • Healthcare: The township has a health center with comprehensive medical services. The New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme (新型农村合作医疗) achieved full participation by the end of 2011.

Social Security

  • Social Security: By 2011, 90% of residents in Wangbuding Township had enrolled in the New Rural Social Pension Insurance (新型农村社会养老保险).

Historical and Cultural Significance

Name Origin

Wangbuding Township derives its name from the local Tibetan term “Debuding” (德布顶), which reflects its cultural heritage and local traditions.

Recognition and Honors

In February 2022, Wangbuding Township was included in the list of candidates for the 2021 Tibet Autonomous Region Ecological Civilization Construction Demonstration Township, recognizing its efforts in promoting environmental sustainability and ecological protection.