More than six years after the construction of the hostel building at the Garpawoong Middle Secondary School in Samdrup Jongkhar first began, there is finally light at the end of the tunnel as the project nears completion. Started in 2016, the project to construct two 120-bed hostels faced numerous setbacks along the way, including a court battle between the first contractor and the district administration. If everything goes as per plan, students can use the new hostel complex by the next academic year.
Today, most of the major construction work is complete. The installation of windows and doors in the toilets is the only remaining task.
The district’s engineering sector is expecting the contractor to finish the project by next month. Without boarding facilities, students either walk or arrange for transportation to commute to and from the school.
At present, Garpawoong Middle Secondary School operates as a day-feeding school, offering breakfast and lunch to students.
“Without boarding facilities, many students must walk or take a taxi from home to arrive at school. Sometimes, we are late to school, and we cannot make it in time for breakfast. And, for taxis, we must pay high fares,” said Chimi Lhazom, a student.
“In boarding school, we can utilise our time properly. We will have time to study in the morning and evening hours. We are paying Nu 2,000 for a taxi every month since the road is not good. The rate is high, and it is difficult to get a vehicle here,” said Jigme Tenzin, another student.
“The construction of the hostel is never completed, so students have to walk. It will be better if the hostel facility is provided since students will get time to study,” said Yegay, a parent.
Construction on the hostel resumed in 2021 after being put on hold for over two years. The work was halted to address a court case between the district administration and the initial contractor.
After the case was resolved, the project was awarded to a different contractor, who also failed to meet the two deadlines. The most recent deadline was in December of last year.
Despite the challenges encountered during the construction process, there’s no denying that the completion of the hostel facilities will significantly improve the learning environment for the students of Garpawoong Middle Secondary School.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Sherub Dorji
