Dzomlingthang, one of the popular public sites in Punakha, is getting a major facelift. Development works are underway to create better spaces with improved infrastructure and facilities. The renewed park is expected to open to the public by November this year. The project is being carried out with a budget of Nu 30 M under the Economic Stimulus Programme.
Unlike other days, Dzomlingthang is filled with the sounds of machines, the clanking of tools, and people working tirelessly. A camping area, picnicking space, lawns and catering areas are being developed at the site. Likewise, infrastructure such as an open kitchen, canopies, footpaths, restrooms, and parking lots are also under construction in the area. The park area stretches over 11 acres of land.
The development work began in July and is planned for completion by the end of next month. The Punakha District Administration is leading the project in collaboration with the Wangdue Forest Division, Chhimipang Royal Project, Bajo Agriculture Research and Development Centre, and the landscape design team from the Phaduna De-suung Skilling Programme Centre.
Nestled along the banks of the Mochhu River, the site offers a calm and soothing atmosphere. Visitors from near and far, even from neighbouring districts, come here to camp and enjoy its beauty. With the growing number of guests, waste management had become a pressing concern. Yet, this issue is expected to be resolved as the area transforms into a well-managed park.
Dawa Gyeltshen, Dochhukha-Dzomlingthang-Ritsa Tshogpa of Guma Gewog said,“Since the government is developing this area into a park, it will benefit waste management. The park will be fenced, and a security guard will be deployed. With these measures, it will be easier for us to manage waste in the area.”
Although the nearby communities welcome the initiative, they are a bit worried about how they will irrigate their fields with water from the Mochhu River. They explained that the area they currently use to draw water for their fields during the dry season will be covered by the park. In response, an official from the district administration said the administration would look into the matter and help resolve it by finding suitable alternatives.
The lack of changing rooms and restrooms for rafters had been a problem in the past. However, these issues will be resolved, as such facilities are now being constructed within the park.
As the area lies between the Mochhu River and the Punakha-Gasa highway, safety remains a concern. An official from the district administration said that flood protection work has already been completed and that awareness programmes and cautionary notices will be put in place once the project is finished. However, he added that the operation and management modalities of the park are yet to be decided.
Once developed into a standard park, Dzomlingthang is expected to benefit visitors and create business opportunities for nearby communities.
Changa Dorji, Punakha
Edited by Kipchu
