The Punatsangchhu ll hydroelectric project already missed two deadlines. And now, as it strives to meet the third one, it is challenged with a labour shortage. Many of its workers left for homes in India and at the same time, fewer Bhutanese turned up to replace them.
The Project authority is not able to bring in new workers to replace those who left amid the pandemic.
As per the latest record, more than 1200 workers returned to India. In addition, according to the economic affairs minister, over 300 more will be leaving.
To fill in the gap, the government floated vacancies for Bhutanese youth. But only 30 applicants came forth to work at the site.
“Around 156 expressed their interest to work there but only 30 turned up after visiting the work site because it is a tough job. Maybe they aren’t aware of the fact that it will only benefit the country if we can complete it even a month earlier. So we are trying to engage our youth at the site. Even if we cannot replace every head, it would help if we can employ at least 300 to 500,” said Loknath Sharma, the Economic Affairs Minister.
Earlier this month, the Managing Director of PHPA II said there will not be any impact on the construction works if they can bring in new workers on time.
Until mid-August, 88 per cent of the works at the project site is complete.
The PHPA II extended its commissioning date to October 2021 after missing out on the revised deadline of December 2018. Works for the 1020-megawatt hydropower project commenced in December 2010.
Phub Gyem
