Changangkha Lhakhang is one of the most visited religious sites in Thimphu. However, as more visitors arrive, the limited parking space is becoming a growing concern. Vehicles often queue onto the road, while pedestrians have to move around closely parked cars.
Parking areas filled with vehicles, cars parked close to one another, incoming drivers waiting and looking for whatever space is available, while those exiting carefully manoeuvring through the crowded area. This is almost an everyday scene around Changangkha Lhakhang.
When the parking is full, the queue of vehicles can stretch onto the road. Commuters say they are sometimes left waiting in traffic for more than ten minutes.
With so many vehicles competing for limited space, there are also times when drivers and visitors are seen arguing over parking.
“Here, the parking is in poor condition. There is no proper space to park, no blacktop as well. It becomes muddy when it rains and dusty during the dry season. It would of great relief if the problem were solved,” said Chimi Rinzen, a driver.
The concern, however, is not only about finding a parking space.
People continue to move through the parking area as vehicles enter, leave, and manoeuvre around them, raising concerns about pedestrian safety.
Families frequently visit the Lhakhang with their newborns to receive blessings. Children and elderly visitors are also among those walking through the area.
Changangkha Lam Choeten said, “An accident happened earlier this month, possibly due to the condition of the parking area. When the parking space is small, and a large number of vehicles arrive, such accidents can happen.”
The pressure on the parking area has grown with the number of visitors coming by vehicle increasing.
There is another parking area below the Lhakhang, but its capacity has been reduced following the extension of the footpath.
“Earlier the parking space was quite big. Now with the extension of the footpath, the space has shrunk. Not many vehicles fit,” said Jigme Wangchuk, a driver.
The Changangkha Lam says the issue has already been brought to the attention of the Ministry of Home Affairs, and they have been told that it will be looked into.
Meanwhile, Changangkha Lhakhang will continue attracting visitors. And until an arrangement that allows vehicles and pedestrians to move around the site safely is in place, they will have to be responsible for ensuring their own safety and those around them.
Anita Chhetri
Edited by Sangay Chezom
