Gelegphu Thromde has proposed the government to reduce the buffer zone or no construction zone in Gelepghu. About 500 metres from border gate towards Gelegphu town falls under the zone where no construction activities are allowed.
The issue was discussed in several thromde meetings. However, no concrete decision has ever come out of the meetings.
The zone, spread across 140 acres of land, is affecting the landowners, according to the locals. They say they have not been able to put their land to use.
“There is no proper road and street lights and it is risky to walk at night.” Bhim Narayan Pradhan of Namkhaling said the only benefit they have received till date is safe drinking water. They also do not have proper drainage system.
Another resident of Namkhaling, Kamal Pradhan said they have been bereft of amenities that a gewog usually enjoys.
The thromde stopped allowing construction in the buffer zone after an order from the Ministry of Works and Human Settlement in 2010. Security was reason cited for the need to have the buffer zone.
