Every monsoon, Thimphu faces the same problems, clogged drains, overflowing gutters, and flooded roads. Despite quicker response from Thimphu Thromde this year, the core drainage issues remain unresolved. Frustrated residents say they are tired of dealing with the same challenges year after year.
Thimphu has been experiencing continuous downpours over the past few days. While the rains have cooled the summer heat, they have also revived a recurring problem, urban flooding.
The murky water rises from every corner as the city’s old and overburdened drainage system gives way once again. People shared videos on social media of dirty water gushing from clogged drains, spilling onto footpaths and pooling into large puddles that turn roads into miniature lakes.
In some areas, the foul stench of raw sewage added to residents’ frustration as sewer lines overflowed.
The weather forecast warns of rain in the next three days, raising concerns that the city’s already strained system will continue to fail.
The Thimphu Thromde has started clearing blockages, but efforts are limited by years of neglect and lack of upgrades.
Residents express frustration that despite repeated flooding and health risks, the problem persists year after year with little meaningful improvement.
Pema, a shopkeeper said, “Water and waste from the nearby drain flow into the shop. We keep our stock on the floor, and it all gets wet. Sometimes, even the dry fishes stored in the shop get affected. We clean every day, but when it rains, it becomes very difficult to manage.”
Another shopkeeper Pema Wangdi said, “Drain water enters our shop whenever there’s heavy rain. This happens because the drainage system was designed back in the 1970s, and the drains are too small. For our own safety, we have to take precautions like not keeping goods on the floor.”
Sonam Phuntsho, a taxi driver said, “For EV taxi drivers like us, the heavy downpour has created many challenges. We don’t get many passengers, and since our cars are electric, driving through flooded roads poses a serious risk to the batteries.”
Gyem Dorji who is a resident said, “I think the responsibility lies with everyone. For example, building owners should be more mindful when constructing drains. Building bigger drains will benefit all of Thimphu. At the same time, the Thromde should ensure proper drainage planning to prevent these problems in the future.”
BBS contacted Thimphu Thromde for comments, but officials were unavailable. However, in a Facebook post, the thromde office urged residents to report any flooding or blockages and to take precautions to prevent drain overflows.
Until a comprehensive drainage upgrade is undertaken, Thimphu’s residents may continue to battle the same issues every monsoon. For now, residents remain alert as more rain is expected and drainage issues persist.
Sangay Chozom and Tashi Dekar
Edited by Kipchu
