The futsal business was once lucrative in Sarpang but with the increasing number of futsal grounds, it has become a struggling business. The business owners say the grounds remain empty at most times. Today, there are nine futsal grounds in the district.
In just three years, the number of futsal grounds increased to nine. With the growing competition, the business owners are facing difficulties to keep their businesses afloat.
A futsal ground at Dekiling Gewog along the Gelephu-Sarpang highway once used to be packed almost all the time with enthusiastic footballers. But today, it is rarely seeing customers.
“My business was booming in the past. However, after they started futsal ground in Chhoekhorling and Jigmeling, it started hampering my business,” said Ugyen Lhamo, Chogyel Futsal.
Similarly, other business owners are also struggling to generate monthly rent for the ground.
“I charge only Nu 800 per game to attract more customers to sustain my business because people visit where the price is low,” said Nim Dorji, NTS Futsal.
“In the past, business was good. Now people are leaving for Australia and also due to the Jigmeling Industrial Park relocation, most people left the area. My business declined by 50 per cent,” said Tshewang Lhamo, RDGS Futsal.
The businesses say they are in a dilemma and do not know what to do. They say they cannot close shop as they have bank loans to repay and intend to carry on despite the struggles.
Karma Wangdi, Sarpang
Edited by Sangay Chezom
