Private companies along the Amochhu in Phuentshogling, severely affected by the recent flooding, are raising concerns over the lack of adequate safety measures to prevent similar disasters in the future. Business owners said they have suffered losses worth millions after the recent floodwaters washed away their stockyards and damaged machinery along the riverbank.
There are nearly 50 private companies, including stone crushers, sawmills, and weighbridge units, operating along the Amochhu on land leased from the Thromde.
Phurba, the manager of KCW Private Limited, said, “We have lost all our documents. My company has lost over 12 thousand metric tons of gravel.”
Business owners fear similar disasters could occur again if authorities do not implement proper safety measures in the area.
“We have already suffered losses worth millions, and if it happens again, we’ll be severely affected. We are concerned about whether the relevant authorities will construct safety walls to prevent similar disasters. I alone suffered losses amounting to around Nu 40 M in the recent flooding,” said Tsendra, proprietor of Jigme Pelri Stone Crusher Unit.
“We do not have any expectations from the government, as we understand they are also going through a difficult time. However, it would mean a lot if officials could at least visit us to see how we are coping. It has been over a week now, and no one has come to check on us, which is disheartening. The risks remain high, and so far, no safety measures have been put in place,” said Ugyen Yoezer, proprieter of Ugyen Yoezer Supply and Vajra Builders Private Ltd.
According to the district officials, the Prime Minister, during his visit to the site, also highlighted the concern. Officials said the Construction Development Corporation Limited, which is carrying out dredging works along the river bank above Work Force Management Centre and the Department of Geology and Mines would work on the construction of temporary water embankments.
Meanwhile, Chukkha Dzongda said the district will plan and implement long term measures.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
Edited by Phub Gyem
