More than 30,000 vehicles have registered to travel to Gelephu for the raising of 108 Stupas on the first of November, with the number expected to increase. With thousands of people expected to gather in Gelephu, police are putting in place measures to ensure the smooth movement of people and vehicles.
Around 22,000 vehicles have registered to travel through the Indian highway, while more than 9,000 will travel from Thimphu through Tsirang.
Colonel Chogyel Drukpa, RBP Media Focal for 108 Stupas, said the large number of vehicles could pose challenges, particularly as more vehicles may yet register.
“Looking at these numbers, we expect to face some challenges, and there could be more vehicles that are yet to register. Therefore, we would like to request people to travel together and carpool wherever possible to help reduce traffic congestion. We would also encourage government employees to do the same, as this would help us significantly,” he said.
Police will strictly monitor vehicle movement from 20th October.
Colonel Chogyel Drukpa said portable automatic speed detection systems, automatic vehicle number plate recognition systems and body cameras will be introduced to strengthen traffic monitoring and ensure road safety.
Private vehicles will not be allowed to enter the town from the first to the fourth of November. Movement of private vehicles will also be restricted within the town during the event.
Around 100 buses and 1,500 taxis have been arranged to transport visitors between designated parking areas and the city.
The border gate in Gelephu will be closed on the first of November.
Entry will be permitted only to invited guests, Bhutanese nationals, and friends of the Bhutan-India Friendship Association. Vehicles will not be allowed to travel from Gelephu towards Thimphu on the 30th and 31st of this month.
Several parking areas have also been identified across the city to accommodate visitors.
“For people travelling from Sarpang to Gelephu, parking has been arranged at Tashiling, from where pick-up and drop-off services will be provided. For those coming from Serzhung, parking has been arranged at Pelrithang. For people coming from Umling and Taraythang, parking has been arranged near the nunnery below Norbuling Primary School, and transportation services will be available from there,” Colonel Chogyel Drukpa said.
For visitors camping in the town area, a designated campsite has been arranged behind the Gelephu Fishery Farm. Parking will be available near the Gelephu sewage plant.
A dedicated toll-free number, 108, will be available throughout the programme for enquiries related to traffic, directions and safety.
Authorities are urging everyone travelling to Gelephu to follow road safety rules and avoid speeding.
Those travelling through India are reminded to wear seatbelts and carry Indian currency to pay the applicable highway fees.
The traffic arrangements are aimed at ensuring the safe and orderly movement of people and vehicles during Project 108.
Namgay Wangdi
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
