While theft of private possessions is common, Thimphu Thromde is facing a new challenge with the disappearance of public properties. Railing rods, manhole covers, gratings, and signage poles are often found missing. This recurring theft is becoming a growing concern for the residents.
Nearly thirty public items including sewer covers, drain covers, railings, grating covers, and signage posts were stolen from various places in Thimphu a week ago.
And this is not the first time. The incidents of stealing such road items have increased in the past few years.
According to Thimphu Thromde, the miscreants mostly steal mild steel and cast iron covers to sell them to scrap dealers.
Residents are expressing concerns about the safety risks posed by open manholes and missing gratings.
“We have children around here, and sometimes drunk drivers drive directly into the open holes and get stuck. These are the main issues,” said Kamal Kumar Chettri, a resident.
“People keep dumping their waste in the drain despite our efforts to clean the area. Teachers and students work hard to keep it clean but it’s a constant struggle. Vehicles often drive into the open holes while parking, causing inconveniences, and sometimes children fall into the hole, which is very dangerous,” said Martha Lepcha, another resident.
Thimphu Thromde found out that these incidents mostly happen in areas without streetlights or CCTV cameras.
They have requested the police to investigate the issue but are still waiting for a response.
Meanwhile, to address the issue, the thromde office plans to install CCTV cameras and streetlights in the most affected areas and encourages anyone who witnesses such activities to inform them.
Sangay Chozom
Edited by Sonam Pem
