The completion of the final design and drawings for the Hongtsho Crematorium, initially targeted for August last year, has been delayed. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has yet to finalise the design for the Hongtsho site. The government announced the relocation of Hejo Crematorium to Hongtsho in 2024. The project has an allocated budget of Nu 600 M.
The Hejo crematorium will be relocated to Hongtsho, covering about 46 acres, including ten acres of privately-owned land.
Land compensation agreements with affected landowners have been finalised, and the Thimphu District Administration is working to provide substitute land.
Land acquisition is expected to be completed within a budget of Nu 15 M, including compensation to landowners for the valuation of three buildings and fruit trees impacted.
Meanwhile, the ministry is developing multiple design options in consultation with key stakeholders, including the Central Monastic Body, to ensure the facility is both functional and culturally appropriate.
According to the ministry, the new crematorium will feature a hybrid system that enables faster ignition of pyres while using minimal firewood. This is expected to ensure more efficient combustion, producing fewer ashes and residues, improving cleanliness, and easing the process of immersing ashes into the river.
The proposed design also includes modern facilities, parking space for up to 500 vehicles, and two layout options, either 21 or 17 pyres.
On the other hand, the existing Hejo crematorium site has been designated as a Green Park under the Thimphu Design Code.
The ministry says that once the concept is approved, detailed designs and groundwork will proceed without delay, setting the stage for construction. For now, the project has not yet transitioned from planning to reality.
Kinzang Lhadon
