The construction of the dry port at Gelephu is on track. The construction work started last year and is expected to be ready by the end of next year. The dry port will have warehouses, load transhipment area, cold storage, a dedicated driver dormitory and customs office.
The project is carried out in two packages. For now, the first package which involves site development works, construction of drainage system, boundary wall, entry-exit gates, roads and parking areas is ongoing.
The deadline for the work in the first package is April next year. Based on the current progress, the project manager says they expect to complete the work ahead of schedule.
“Physically we have completed around 60 per cent of the work. It will be completed ahead of the schedule as per the progress at the site. Simultaneously, we have started doing work for the second package, which consists of the construction of warehouses,” said Deepak Acharya, project manager.
There will be three warehouses for export and import. The estimated cost of the project is Nu 880 M which is funded by the Indian Government.
It is being constructed on over 26 acres of land near the Gelephu Domestic Airport.
Once completed, the facility is expected to facilitate cross-border trade through improved cargo handling services and bring economic benefits.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Tshering Zam