Samtse town is undergoing major redevelopment, with about 40 per cent of the core town area development project completed. The project, which began in October last year, is expected to be completed by the end of next year, with more than Nu 45 M being spent to improve the town’s infrastructure and appearance.
The project includes the construction of two underground utility tunnels to replace the overhead wires and cables currently crisscrossing the town. One tunnel will carry cables and wires, while the other will accommodate water and sewerage lines.
Footpaths will be built above the tunnels, alongside improvements to the drainage system. The plan also includes blacktopping roads, developing proper parking spaces and creating green spaces around the stupa.
Som Kumar Pradhan, Thromde Ngotsab, Samtse, said the redevelopment would bring several changes to the town.
“A lot of changes are happening. The existing cables and wires hang in the air, which looks unpleasant and messy. Now, there will be duct tunnels, drainage, and greenery developed. Also, there will be footpaths and roads,” he said.
While construction has affected some businesses, residents say they expect to benefit once the work is completed.
Leela Kumari Mongar, a resident of Samtse town, said the ongoing redevelopment had made things difficult for businesses for now, but she expected the changes to benefit them in the future.
“The town is being redeveloped, and many new changes will come. For now, it is difficult for us because our businesses are affected. However, in the future, it will benefit us,” she said.
According to district officials, construction has been slowed by existing cables, water pipelines and sewerage lines. Workers must ensure these essential services remain undisturbed while carrying out the work.
Beyond the core town area, the district also plans to develop a mini park for recreation, expand footpaths and strengthen town cleaning and beautification efforts.
Kinley Dem, Samtse
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
