It’s been nearly a month now since the Baazam in Changjiji near the flyover bridge was closed off to public over safety concerns.
“To avoid mishaps, we closed the bridge and even notified the public through BBS,” Thimphu Thrompon Kinlay Dorjee said.
The Thromde is not sure whether to renovate or rebuilt the cantilever bridge.
“We informed the works and human settlement ministry. We don’t have the expertise to see whether the bridge needs to be rebuilt or renovated. The ministry should be able to help us determine,” the Thrompon added.
He added a decision will be made after a proper research and study is carried out.
The Thrompon said it’s likely they will not be able to do anything in the current five year plan. “If the bridge needs to be rebuilt, a huge amount of fund will be required and we do not have that.”
The Ministry of Works and Human Settlement says it is willing to provide technical assistance in constructing or renovating the bridge.
The bridge is important for the people living in the Changjiji housing colony. It enables them to cross over to the either side without having to make a detour.
“People now have to take the lengthy route,” Yeshi, a Thimphu resident said.
“Earlier, going to a football match or school was easy and convenient. It’s particularly difficult for the students because they now have to walk long distances to get to schools,” Dorji Tsheten said.
With the bridge not likely to open anytime soon, residents and students will have no option but to continue using the lengthy route no matter how inconvenient.
Thimphu Thromde hopes to be able to do something but only in the 12th Five Year Plan.
The Baazam was built in 2007.
