Next time you visit Damphu town in Tsirang, finding a space to park your car won’t be an issue. Road Safety and Transport Authority and Police in Tsirang initiated a measure to address the town’s parking crunch. ’30-Minute Parking Management’ measure ensures there is enough parking space in the town.
As the name suggests, drivers can park their cars in a designated parking for up to 30 minutes with their parking lights on.
“Things have improved now. In the past, we had to wait or make rounds of the town to get a parking space. It was especially a challenge for those visiting the town for the first time,” said Gopal.
“It is easier to get a parking and shop and load comfortably. Earlier, shopkeepers would occupy most of the available parking spaces and there would be no parking space for the customers,” added Karma Phuentsho.
The initiative was endorsed by the Dzongkhag Tshogdue following proposal from police in Tsirang.
“At the moment, when town’s residents and business entities occupy the available parking spaces, the customers or outsiders have to double park their cars,” said Ugyen Dorji, Officer Commanding of Tsirang Police.
“15 minutes will be little less for those who visit the town for meals. So we will entertain parking timing up 30 minutes,” added Gyem Tshering, Superintendent of Police, Tsirang.
However, 30 minutes parking time is not enough for some hoteliers. They said although it hasn’t affected their business yet, it is difficult for them to cater services to customers within the stipulated time frame.
Meanwhile, town’s residents and business owners are allotted a separate parking space within the town, adjacent to the Moenlam Chenmo hall and the old taxi parking, during office hours.
Pema Tshewang, Tsirang
