Exciting developments are underway at the Samdrup Jongkhar Thromde football ground as it gears up to transform into a fully-fledged stadium within this year. However, the current state of construction has left spectators feeling stranded, lacking a proper view of the action on the ground. People are calling for the contractor to speed up the construction works. Originally scheduled for completion in May last year, the project deadline was extended until September this year. Approximately 90 per cent of the works are complete, however, the contractor has asked for another extension until November of this year to complete the remaining works.
During the recent departmental football tournament, excitement reached its peak as more than 2,000 spectators flocked to witness the final match.
However, the lack of seating facilities at the football ground posed a challenge for many eager fans who had come to enjoy the game.
With limited options available, some resourceful spectators resorted to watching the match from the construction site area adjacent to the football ground, making do with whatever space they could find.
Others, determined to catch every moment of the action, stood throughout the entire game, undeterred by the absence of proper seating arrangements.
“If the contractor could complete the gallery construction work faster, it will be great for the spectators,” said Leki Wangdi, a spectator.
“The stadium is under construction, and it has been about two years. If the construction works are done quickly, the spectators will not have to sit on the ground and struggle in the rain,” said Nima, another spectator.
“Without a proper sitting gallery, spectators sit along the lines on the artificial turf. Sometimes, when there are children, it is a risk for them. It is fine when it does not rain but when it does it is a struggle,” said Kuenzang Gyeltshen, a football enthusiast.
The contractor said the flooring, roofing, electrification and plumbing works have yet to be completed. Efforts are being made to finish the work within this year.
The contractor added that a shortage of materials and adverse weather conditions during the heavy monsoon last year resulted in delays.
Once complete, the stadium will have proper seating galleries for spectators, as well as facilities like changing rooms, public toilets and a media room. The project is worth Nu 63 M.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Sherub Dorji
