The rows of dilapidated houses, almost resembling death traps, in Chachey under Gosarling Gewog in Tsirang, have not been renovated ever since 1945. The 68 years old town was a popular hub in early 80s.
Our Bureau Correspondent, Yeshi Nidup, who was in Chachey town, say the people live in fear thinking the houses may collapse one day.
Chachey market served as an important place to trade for people from Wangduephodrang, Dagana and Tsirang. However, over the years, the allure of the town started fading, even as the businesses in Chachey started dwindling. People started moving away in search of newer towns.
After 68 long years, the town wears a forlorn look. The structures in the town are old and decaying; giving sleepless nights to the people living there. They are worried the houses might collapse one day and injure them.
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The Land Commission has directed us to approve the land on lease for five years…But there are applications from both new and existing applicants. So, we are waiting for a clearer approval…”
Ngawang Pem
Dzongda,
Tsirang
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But renovate they cannot, as the land belongs to the government.
Many people who own shops in Chachey said they would be grateful if the government could transfer the land ownership to them or come up with alternatives.
“I have shop worth Nu.30 to 40 hundred thousand. Earthquake, short circuit and fire will be disastrous for us as no insurance company is willing to insure us since the land belongs to the government,” said a businessman Indra Bahadur Thapa.
He said they have also submitted letters to the Dzongkhag more than ten to 15 times.
According to the Dzongkhag Administration, they have received 19 applications including seven new.
Tsirang Dzongda, Ngawang Pem, said to solve the problem, Chachey will be leased off to the business community. It will be done in consultation with the Land Commission.
The Business community in Chachey has waited long for decisions from the higher authority. They say as soon as they get the green signal to go ahead with the renovations, they will start.
