Gola town in Samtse’s Tashichhoeling Dungkhag, one of the oldest towns in the country, has been undergoing redevelopment since the town planning works began in 2015. However, the project has missed yet another deadline as 15 plot owners have yet to start construction, failing to meet the agreed 2024 completion timeline.
Despite the setbacks, Gola town has seen notable progress compared to previous years. The old huts dating back to the 1960s are gradually being replaced with modern two-storeyed buildings.
Today, out of over 52 plots, 37 plot owners have either completed or are on the verge of completing their two-storeyed buildings. The remaining 15 plot owners, citing budget constraints and difficulties in securing loans, have been unable to commence their construction.
With much of the building work completed, residents are now urging the municipality office and the Tashichhoeling Dungkhag Administration to expedite road and drainage improvements, along with other essential town-related works.
“We face a lot of challenges due to the poor road conditions as it gets very dusty in winter and very muddy in summer. We would also be grateful if the authorities concerned could expedite town planning works and start developing facilities like a children’s park, which is part of the plan,” said Shiva Raj Ghalley, a plot owner, Gola, Samtse.
“The main problem we are facing now is the road. It is not even a kilometre long and blacktopping it shouldn’t be too difficult. It has been a challenge throughout the year. We have been told that a budget has been allocated for the works, but we have not received any updates. We hope the road maintenance will start soon,” said Namgay Dorji, another plot owner, Gola, Samtse.
The Samtse Municipality and the Tashichhoeling Dungkhag Administration, which are overseeing the project, acknowledged the delays.
They said that despite multiple deadline extensions, many plot owners struggle to complete their constructions due to financial constraints and lack of access to loans amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recognising these challenges, authorities have chosen not to pressure plot owners to finish their buildings.
No new deadline extension has been announced but the municipality office said they are exploring a viable solution.
Officials supported the idea of commencing town development works soon, given the overall construction progress. However, they added that a limited budget may delay immediate implementation.
Located in the heart of Tashichhoeling Dungkhag, Gola town serves as a key commercial hub, attracting visitors from the five gewogs in Tashichhoeling Dungkhag, as well as Yoeseltse and Sangngagchogling Gewogs.
Passang Dorji, Samtse
Edited by Sonam Pem
