The long-delayed plans to upgrade Gomtu town remain in limbo. The town development works have yet to take shape due to unresolved land lease disputes involving Penden Cement Authority (PCAL) and private individuals. The issue has stalled construction, contributed to a housing crunch, and hindered the town’s development.
Despite decades of discussions and proposals to transform Gomtu into a developed urban area, tangible progress has yet to materialise.
Residents have expressed frustration over the lack of progress.
“The only visible development in Gomtu town is the repainting of buildings. Other than the connection of a road, there has not been much progress. The buildings are all the same, just with a fresh coat of paint,” said KK Sunwar, a resident of Gomtu, Samtse.
“We have shared our concerns with several ministers who visited Gomtu town. They noted our problems and assured us they would address them, but nothing has changed. People who own land here have not been allowed to start construction, which has further delayed the town’s development,” said Lok Mani Gurung, another resident.
“The town has not changed at all from what it was in the past. The only new facility we have is a small waste-collecting vehicle provided by PCAL. Other essential amenities that a small town needs are still missing,” said Shanti Maya Rai, also a resident.
According to the Samtse District Administration, PCAL sub-leasing land in Gomtu town to private individuals is the main obstacle to development.
The administration said that PCAL has sub-leased approximately 2.4 acres of its land in the main town area to 28 private individuals, who have since constructed permanent structures.
These buildings are built without conforming to Bhutanese traditional architectural standards. Additionally, their proximity to the border wall presents further complications for development.
The district administration has expressed readiness to proceed with town planning if this issue is resolved.
PCAL was supposed to submit a report detailing its approach to resolving the matter of leased land and the existing buildings. However, the district administration has not received any report to date.
Meanwhile, PCAL acknowledged the issue, adding that discussions with its board and the affected private individuals are ongoing. The company said it remains hopeful of resolving the issue by next year, although no definite timeline has been set.
Passang Dorji, Samtse
Edited by Phub Gyem
