The construction of the Gross National Happiness Centre has begun in Bumthang. The centre will be constructed on the 46-acres of blue pine forest by the side of Chamkharchhu in Dewaling.
The total budget for the overall Centre is estimated as US$ 10 MN.
The construction of the GNH Centre was delayed because the previous design of the centre had too much ecological damage.
The construction of interim space is expected to be complete within a year. The interim space will be built on less than 0.5 acres of land. It is expected to serve as a space for the Centre’s activities, until the main centre is ready.
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The interim space will have conference and dining halls and would accommodate 100 participants each. It will also have meditation hall. Nu.8.9 MN has been kept aside for the construction of interim space.
However, the construction of the main space on the other side of the river will start only next year. Funds are still being mobilised to construct the main space.
The GNH Centre’s Director, Dr. Saamdu Chhetri, said the centre will promote sustainable use of natural resources through waste reduction to reduce global carbon emissions. “It’ll be the centre, where people can practise and live GNH ideas of simple harmonious life.”
Initially, the local participants might be required to come with ration, and participants from abroad might have to pay a minimal fee to be at the centre.
