To improve regional transport services across eastern Bhutan, the Monggar Regional Transport office is proposing to upgrade the bus station and its regional office in Monggar. The proposal was discussed during the recent Dzongkhag Tshogdu. However, the office has been asked to submit a comprehensive plan along with detailed budget estimate for further consideration.
Recently, when the East-West Highway between Bumthang and Monggar was closed briefly due to landslides triggered by incessant rain, all buses were stranded at Monggar’s only bus station, causing congestion.
According to the Regional Transport Office, such situations are common regardless of the season.
In such a situation, due to a lack of a proper bus terminal, travellers often face inconveniences.
Passengers and bus drivers said there is an urgent need for a well-equipped terminal, which has basic amenities such as shelter, luggage store room, waiting area, and lighting and mobile charging facilities.
Pema Loday, a bus driver said, “If we have a shelter at the bus station it will be convenient. Many buses arrive here. When it rains, it is inconvenient.”
Tshundru, a passenger said, “If the bus station is in the town, it will be convenient. The bus stand is not spacious enough. There is no proper place to sit and wait.”
Likwise, Tenzin Phuntsho, a bus driver said, “In Phuentshogling, it is convenient as there is a shelter even when it rains. It will be convenient if we have a shelter. There is no place to store luggage. We had to request officials here to keep luggage in their offices.”
Similarly, Karma Namgay also said “All the buses travel via Monggar. When light vehicles come here, it is inconvenient. It will be beneficial for everyone if there is a proper designated place for storing luggage.”
During the recent Dzongkhag Tshogdu, the regional transport office shared all these inconveniences and sought support from relevant stakeholders.
As directed by the Dzongkhag Tshogdu, the office will submit a comprehensive plan and budget proposal to the district administration.
Namgay Wangchuk, Monggar
Edited by Tshering Zam
