From temporary bamboo sheds and cramped spaces in the past, Phaling town in Lhuentse is slowly transforming into a new one with the execution of developmental works recently. Within a couple of years from now, the new town will have all the basic facilities such as internal road network, street lights and footpaths.
The work at Phaling town started in June last year. Currently, Dzongkhag is focusing on construction of two and a half kilometres double lane road. Of twenty-eight plots distributed, fifteen buildings are already completed and a few are under construction.
“Scientifically we call it double lane road where two vehicles can move at the same time. The construction of footpath and drainage system is also included in the work package. Moreover, we also constructed a duct for power lines. We want to make it a unique town,” shares Kelzang Lhendup, the Dzongkhag Engineer of Lhuentse.
In addition, construction of an entry and exit gates is also included in the work plan for visitors. However, it would take a minimum of two years to finish all the developmental activities.
“The duration of contract work is 30 months. It has been more than seven months since the work started. During that time period, most of the groundwork for road widening is completed now. And over 30 per cent of the construction of retaining walls is also finished now,” he added.
The Nu 90 M town is expected to be ready by December 2021. Most of the shops in Phaling town were operating from temporary sheds. The town was also located on a sloppy area, which was risky with landslides in summer and fire in winter.
Sonam Tshering
