It was Covid then, and this time, it’s the strict regulations. More than 70 entertainment businesses in Thimphu including karaoke, nightclubs and live music bars have been closed down by the Thromde from today. The business owners say they have been told it’s for failing to meet certain standards.
More than 40 business owners gathered at the Thromde Office in hopes of having their closure notices cancelled.
They met with the Thrompon and pleaded their case but it was not entertained.
According to the Bhutan Karaoke and Life Music Association, the business owners have been given till the end of November to complete the alterations or missing facilities pointed out by the Thromde. Some of them have also been fined for not complying with the activities allowed for their licenses.
The Association’s President said the owners were notified earlier of Thromde’s new SoE and told to make the changes according to it. However, he said they were shocked to receive the news today that all businesses would have to be closed for the next three months.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Yeshi Gyaltshen
