The Dorjilung Hydropower Project on the Kurichhu River is set to create between 4,000 and 5,000 jobs each year, bringing thousands of workers to the region. Businesses in Gyalpozhing and Lingmethang, which are currently struggling to stay afloat, expect a boost as demand rises for local shops, transport and housing services.
Gyalpozhing town was once thriving, but it now wears a deserted look.
The town flourished when Gyalpozhing Higher Secondary School operated here, and business improved further when it was upgraded to a college. However, after the college relocated, trade began to decline.
About 12 kilometres away, Lingmethang town faces a similar downturn.
Together, these two satellite towns have nearly a hundred businesses, including grocery shops, garment stores, restaurants and hotels. Many now struggle to survive.
Business owners are now pinning their hopes on the Dorjilung Hydropower Project to restore economic activity.
According to Druk Green Power Corporation, the project, scheduled for completion in 2032, will generate between 4,000 and 5,000 jobs a year. Construction of preliminary infrastructure, including access roads and bridges, began last year and has already brought in more than 100 workers.
As more workers arrive, businesses expect steady demand for retail, food services, vehicle hire and maintenance.
Samten Lhamo, a shopkeeper in Gylapozhing said, “Business was good when the boarding school was here, and it improved further when it became a college. After the college relocated, trade deteriorated. Now we hear that the Dorjilung project will bring many people to the area, and we hope that it will help our businesses pick up again.”
Dechen Penjor, who runs a hotel in Lingmethang said, “These days, I serve only around 20 customers, mostly Gyalsung staff at lunchtime and a few local workers. If the project brings more people to the area, it will benefit all of us. We will be able to pay our rent on time and restock our supplies more easily.”
“Business was better when the college operated and when Mountain Hazelnut staff were based in Lingmethang. Now it is not the same. The Gyalsung project in Bongdeyma helped us, and with the Dorjilung project coming, we are excited and hopeful that our towns will regain their former vitality,” said Kezang Wangmo, a shopkeeper in Lingmethang.
“Gyalpozhing has a small population, which affects business. Sometimes goods expire before we can sell them. I hope the project will change this situation and benefit everyone,” said Samten Dema, a shopkeeper in Gyalpozhing.
Farmers in Monggar and Lhuentse also expect to benefit from a reliable and steady market.
With major construction set to gather pace in the coming years, local communities hope the project will not only generate electricity but also restore economic vitality to Gyalpozhing and Lingmethang.
Namgay Wangchuk, Monggar
Edited by Sangay Chezom
