Most small-scale hoteliers and restaurant owners in Paro, say the setbacks while using the BIG (Bhutan Industrial Gas cylinders) outweigh the benefits.
The Manager for KK Hotel in Paro, Moenlam Zangpo, said their hotel purchased three BIG cylinders and already, two have been used up. “It is taking a financial toll on us.” He also said the small-scale hoteliers and restaurateurs will go out of business if the requirement continues.
The only benefit, they said, is that a BIG cylinder lasts one week longer as compared to the previous cylinders they were using. “But the price that is charged for refilling one such cylinder comes up to that of four ordinary cylinders,” said Phuensum Restaurant owner, Deki Wangmo.
Recently, around 50 small-scale hoteliers and restaurateurs from Paro met with the Economics Affairs minister to express their concerns. They have been given an extension till July to acquire the BIG cylinders.
The Department of Trade and Industry office in Thimphu, says the time extension does not apply to all, and that implementation works and checking are still being carried out.
