Constructions across the country have been impacted by the pandemic. Construction of the Sangbaykha Dungkhag Court in Haa has been no exception. The new court was supposed to be ready by last month, however, it is only over 50 per cent complete so far.
Skilled labour shortage, hurdles while importing raw materials and vehicle movement restrictions were some of the key factors that attributed to the delay in works.
The project which was initially set for 12 months began last year in October. Works kicked off with 17 foreign labourers and few local labourers. But with the outbreak of COVID-19, all labourers slowly left for their homes. The contractor had to replace them with local workers. Today there are nine local labourers and the work is going smoothly as of now. But so far only 50 per cent of the works have been completed.
“One main reason that works are not complete is because of the labour shortage. After my foreign labours fled to home I have recruited local labourers. Our Bhutanese labourers are skilled at masonry works but they lack skills at the construction of buildings. Therefore if we are to hire foreign labourers it will cost us high. Looks like it will cost us Nu 100,000 to 200,000 per worker if we import. The pandemic has also impacted us in procuring raw materials,” said Karma Tshering, the Contractor.
Today three rooms of the dungkhag administration block are being used as Dungkhag Court. Court officials say it is congested and hinders the health protocols.
“Once the ongoing construction works are complete, it will be very convenient. Today we have no option than to defy the social gathering mandates as we have only three rooms. We have almost eight staff, and during the court procedures, people cramp in these three rooms,” said Tobgay, the Drangpoen of Sangbaykha Dungkhag.
If all goes as planned, the project is expected to be complete by January next year. The court is being constructed with a budget of Nu 10.99 M.
Namgay Wangchuk
