The government has reallocated Nu 1.5bn from affordable housing to improve chiwog roads. At Meet The Press on Friday, the Infrastructure and Transport Minister said the move will deliver faster benefits to a larger number of people. The fund was originally set aside under the Economic Stimulus Programme for housing.
At the time of assessment, it was found that the budget allocated would reach only a limited number of people. High construction costs and rising demand, especially in rural areas, raised concerns about fairness.
“According to the Bhutan Living Standards Survey, around 16,500 people do not own homes. Even at a minimum cost of Nu 1 M per unit for low and middle-income groups, the total requirement would be about Nu 8 to 9bn. Therefore, the allocated Nu 1.5bn is far from sufficient. Even if distributed at Nu 1 M per household, it would not meet the demand and could, in fact, create disparity and disharmony among people,” said Chandra Bdr. Gurung, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport.
In contrast, improving chiwog roads was seen as a more practical option.
Better roads are expected to enhance access to markets, healthcare, and education, while also supporting socio-economic development.
“When we considered appropriating the budget, the decision was taken by the Lhengye Zhungtshog, after requests from local leaders who said that chiwog and farm roads are a priority,” added the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport.
Despite the reallocation, the government said work on long-term housing plans continues.
The Department of Human Settlements is finalising the National Housing Strategy, which will guide the implementation of the National Housing Policy 2020.
Samten Dolkar
Edited by Sonam Pem
