For long, development works such as the construction of drains and widening of roads in the Thimphu Thromde areas have come under public scrutiny. But not anymore! If the current progress is any indication, then a lot has progressed over the past month. The thromde and the Construction Development Corporation Limited are working round the clock.
It is 11 PM on Thursday, a time when most of us are already in bed. But for a group of more than 15 people, mostly laid off by the pandemic, it was just the beginning. With their safety gear on, they gathered at their drain and footpath construction sites near the Lungtenzampa Bridge, taking over from the group that had begun to work in the evening.
Their shift ends at 3 AM and after that, the next group will take over.
One of the workers is Tashi Jamyang, a former tour guide. Working late at night was a completely new experience.
“For a few days, I faced many challenges. However, after some time, I was comfortable. It is risky to do such work during the day for commuters, pedestrians, and workers as well. So, it’s safer to work at night,” he said.
Most of the workers are youth, who have lost jobs after the pandemic. They said while youth these days don’t like working in the construction sector, one gains a lot of experience and skills, and one can also make a living out of it.
The scene is no different along the Chhubachu_Jungshina road. It has almost been a month since the thromde has been working day and night. Today, blacktopping of roads, installation of streetlights, and construction of drains and footpaths are in full swing.
And there too, most of the workers are former tour guides.
While they feel privileged to complete the work to provide convincing evidence to people, they can also make a living. They said it gives them a sense of pride and satisfaction.
They are paid a minimum of Nu 15,000 and a maximum of Nu 45,000, based on their skills and expertise.
Today, more than 90 per cent of the work is complete. The work along the stretch is scheduled to complete by the end of this month.
Sonam Tenzin
Edited by Chayku
