Building a future city takes more than roads, bridges and airports. It also means preparing hotels and businesses to respond when emergencies happen. Across Gelephu, fire extinguishers and first-aid kits are becoming a common sight as the GMC Administration introduces new hospitality safety standards.
Walk into a shop, hotel, guesthouse, or restaurant in Gelephu today, and you may notice some new safety features. Fire extinguishers are now placed near reception areas and kitchen entrances, first-aid kits are kept within easy reach, and some establishments have introduced feedback boxes for customers.
These measures are more than just additions to business premises. They are part of a broader effort to build a stronger safety culture as the Gelephu Mindfulness City prepares its hospitality sector to meet international standards.
For many business owners, the changes are both practical and reassuring. They say being prepared for emergencies is no longer just good practice; it is becoming an essential part of running a hospitality business.
“In case of a fire or any emergency, having a fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit will be very helpful. It will make both business owners and customers feel safer. I hope these benefit everyone,” said Dhan Maya Powdyel, Restaurant Owner, Gelephu.
“In an emergency, a first-aid kit allows us to provide immediate basic treatment before patients are taken to the hospital. It is something every business should have,” said Bina Tamang, Staff, Kuzu Hotel, Gelephu.
“A first-aid box is very important for every one of us. We feel that the safety measures being introduced by the GMC Administration are beneficial for businesses as well as our customers,” said Ashi Viswananthan, Owner, Southern Hotel, Gelephu.
According to the Tourism Development Group of the Gelephu Mindfulness City Administration, the requirement is part of the upcoming GMC Hospitality Standards, which are currently being developed.
The standards build on the existing safety and classification requirements of the Department of Tourism and will apply to hospitality accommodation establishments operating within GMC.
Businesses will be responsible for providing and maintaining properly stocked first-aid kits and functional fire extinguishers. They are also expected to ensure staff are trained in their proper use.
The administration says compliance will be monitored through GMC’s Quality Audit process, which will assess establishments, identify areas for improvement and guide businesses before certification. Along with safety equipment, customer feedback mechanisms such as feedback boxes will also support efforts to improve hospitality services.
As Gelephu transforms, GMC says building confidence among visitors begins with safer establishments, better services and a stronger culture of preparedness.
Karma Wangdi/ Passang Dorji, Gelephu
