The infrastructure and transport ministry will soon carry out the final cost-benefit analysis for the construction of airstrips at Yoeseltse in Samtse and Samrang in Samdrup Jongkhar. The ministry has received directives from the Cabinet to conduct the analysis. The two sites were identified as suitable for developing airstrips following a pre-feasibility study carried out last year.
According to the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, the pre-feasibility assessment examined terrain and soil conditions for runway, weather, airspace, and air flight paths of the sites.
The two sites at Yoeseltse and Samrang have been selected after the ministry conducted onsite feasibility assessments in places in Samdrup Jongkhar, Monggar, Dagana, Trashigang and Zhemgang last year.
Chandra Bdr. Gurung, Infrastructure and Transport Minister said “Besides the ministry, we consulted experts such as the National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM), National Land Commission Secretariat, Department of Air Transport, and Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority. At the end, we consulted with the pilots as well.”
The member of parliament from Khamdang-Ramjar constituency in Trashi Yangtse questioned whether the airstrips will benefit the public. He added that the existing international airport in Paro and the domestic airports have yet to generate the expected revenue for the government.
Namgay Dorji, the MP said “It is very important to weigh the benefits of the airstrip because even the international airport in Paro is not generating much profit. Likewise, the airstrip in Bumthang does not see many travelers. So, the government needs to think this through and accordingly prioritise.”
The prime minister acknowledged that the profit from the existing airports is less compared to investments. Nonetheless, he added, the benefits will outweigh the investment in the long run.
“It is important to check the feasibility of constructing an airstrip and acquire funds. This might not bring immediate benefits, but it will in the future.”
The infrastructure and transport minister said his ministry will commence construction of the airstrips after assessing cost-benefit analysis, and other feasibility studies.
Meanwhile, to promote balanced development and boost tourism in the east, the government said they will explore ways to enhance and improve the existing airstrip at Yonphula.
Namgay Dema/Devika Pradhan/Singye Dema
Edited by Phub Gyem
