As Damphu Town in Tsirang continues to expand, infrastructure development is progressing steadily in the Local Area Plan. Construction of internal roads, water supply networks, and other essential infrastructure is currently in full swing to support the town’s planned growth.
Spread across 14 acres, Damphu’s Local Area Plan II (LAP II) is steadily taking shape. It covers the core town area and has more than 300 private plots, the highest among Damphu’s three Local Area Plans.
Infrastructure development is now gathering pace. More than four kilometres of internal connectivity roads have already been completed. The district has allocated more than Nu 34 M for the initial phase of the road construction. It is expected to be complete in May next year.
Likewise, nearly Nu 18 M has been spent on the water supply project, while it is expected to be completed in January.
Private construction is also picking up after the Damphu Municipal Office lifted the construction moratorium in 2022.
Fourteen buildings are currently under construction in LAP II. The Municipal Office has issued planning permits to another eight plot owners.
The locals added that the lack of internal roads delayed house construction for many landowners with plots away from proper road access.
“People from all 20 districts, including some Bhutanese living in Australia, own plots in LAP II. The construction of the internal road will make it much easier to transport construction materials. In the past, the lack of water supply and internal road access made it extremely difficult, even if we obtained construction approval,” said Madani Prasad Oli, Plot Owner, Damphu Town, Tsirang.
“I have plans to construct a building, but I will have to rely on a loan. Last year, my plot was valued at only Nu 4 M. This year, I am told that its value has increased to Nu 7 M. If the valuation reaches eight million next year, I will be able to start construction work with an additional budget of Nu 2 to 3 M,” said Magnath Subedi, Plot Owner, Damphu Town, Tsirang.
Officials say landowners may construct buildings of up to four storeys, provided they comply with the approved building regulations.
Pema Tshewang, Tsirang
Edited by Passang
