The construction of the much-anticipated 120-unit residential colony for healthcare professionals of Gelephu Central Regional Referral Hospital staff is once again going to miss the extended deadline. Initially scheduled for completion in September last year, it was delayed due to the pandemic. The construction deadline was extended till September this year. However, it has yet again been extended until the end of the year.
The National Pension and Provident Fund started the construction of the colony in January 2020. But the border closure hindered the supply chain of raw materials and delayed the construction amid the pandemic.
Currently, about 75 per cent of the construction work has been completed. But the delay in obtaining the necessary raw materials is causing further setbacks.
“Currently, only 20 staff quarters are available on the hospital premises, forcing the majority of the healthcare workers to seek accommodation in privately rented houses or commute from distant locations such as Jigmeling and Pelrithang. The completion of the residential colony would greatly benefit these staff members, particularly those who reside far from the hospital, by providing them with convenient and suitable living spaces,” said Dr Choeda, the medical superintendent of Gelephu Hospital.
The residential colony will be prioritised for medical and health care staff providing emergency services. There are more than 300 staff in the hospital.
The 120-unit residential colony is being constructed at a cost of Nu 219 M.
Karma Wangdi, Sarpang
Edited by Sonam Pem
