Thimphu residents seeking outdoor leisure could have an additional recreational park to explore. Tshalumarphey Ecological Park in south Thimphu is 20 per cent complete, with key infrastructure works finished. The Nu 210 M project aims to transform the old sewerage ponds into an ecological and recreational space, with construction expected to continue through the 2027–2028 financial year.
Tshalumarphey Ecological Park is being developed at the old open-air sewerage ponds in Babesa.
The sewerage ponds have been dewatered and desludged. River-protection, pond, and water-supply works have also been completed.
Spanning about 21 acres, the park is part of the Green Infrastructure and Open Spaces programme under the Thimphu Structure Plan.
The park is planned to feature gardens, walking paths, riverfront spaces and wetlands.
The project’s estimated cost is Nu 210 M financed through the Government of India’s Project-Tied Assistance project. Of this, Nu 75 M has been allocated for the current financial year.
Ministry for Infrastructure and Transport’s Secretary Karma Wangchuk said, “Dewatering and desludging the former ponds was the first step in preparing the site for public use. The Ministry will make sure the site is safe, clean and suitable before it is opened to the public. The Ministry is leading the implementation of the activity in close collaboration with Thimphu Thromde, while arrangements for the management and operation of the park after completion are being discussed to ensure its sustainability.”
Once completed, the park is expected to provide residents with more places to walk, relax and spend time outdoors. The project forms part of wider efforts to expand public spaces in Thimphu while protecting habitats, connecting ecological areas and strengthening resilience to climate hazards.
Anita Chhetri
Edited by Phub Gyem
