Many say the recently-inaugurated model bus stop at Changjiji in Thimphu is neither user-friendly nor aesthetically Bhutanese in design. The-48 seat model bus stop was inaugurated, last week.
The model bus stop, constructed in line with the Intelligent Transport System’s recommendations, contradicts Gross National Happiness’s pillar of preserving culture, many say.
“Personally, I am not satisfied with the current structure that is put in place. It is neither aesthetically Bhutanese nor it can protect the waiting passengers from rain and sun,” said National Council’s Deputy Chairperson, Tshering Dorji. “I hope the government will re-consider their strategies or decision to build more bus stops by resorting to build a convenient, cost efficient, and user friendly bus stops.”
A resident of Thimphu, Thinley Namgyal said the current model bus stop appears less efficient even though the government has spent a huge amount of money. “It cannot protect the waiting commuters from cold and snowfall during winter. There is also no proper place to stay away from rain during the summer.”
Another resident, Ugyen Tenda, said if the government wants to build similar bus stops elsewhere, he recommends that the bus stops be bigger in size so that it can accommodate more waiting commuters.
Some took to social media to voice their dissatisfaction of the new structure. Many said it is not worth the cost and lack basic utilities. The construction of the model bus stop cost almost a million Ngultrum.
Information and communications ministry’s Project Coordinator Sonam Dendup said since it is a pilot project, the ministry is open to criticisms and feedback.“For Thimphu city, we have plans of constructing more than 70 bus stops. So criticisms are important for us. But, it does not mean we will be taking all the criticisms that are posted in social media. We will be selective.”
He also added the cost incurred was high since most of the equipment and materials procured were just for one bus stop. Sonam Dhedup said the cost incurred in the future will be cut by half.
On the other hand, there were some who said at least they don’t have to stand while waiting for buses.
United Nation Development Program funded the model bus stop.
