The proposal to implement a parking fee collection system in Bajo town was rejected at the recent Dzongkhag Tshogdu. Some members had suggested the idea due to the increasing number of vehicles resulting in parking issues. However, after a thorough discussion, the proposal was dismissed due to lack of support.
The parking situation worsens, especially during weekends, due to visitors from outside the town. The issue was recently discussed in the Dzongkhag Tshogdu.
Some members suggested implementing the parking fees to free up space to discourage people from parking for long hours. Currently, without such a system, vehicles are often left parked for extended periods.
“I think most people can afford to pay a parking fee of Nu 5 to 10. After listening to the discussion, I understand there’s a concern about those who live in town permanently. In my opinion, with careful planning and arrangements, it shouldn’t negatively impact them,” said Dawa Tshering, Sephu Gup.
“People from rural areas who come to town for shopping are experiencing difficulties in the town. There’s a constant struggle to find parking space with vehicles queued closely, honking like in Jaigaon town,” said Kinley Wangchuk, Gase Tshogom Mangmi.
However, some members argued that implementing the system would affect permanent residents of the town. They also said that it’s too early to put the system in place.
“Only the ground floors are used for commercial purposes while the rest of the flats are occupied by people as residential compartments. They are concerned about the parking fees as some leave their vehicles parked all day and night during weekends. Given the current economic situation, people question whether it’s practical and convenient to implement the system,” said Kinga, Daga Gup.
The municipal engineer presented annual potential earnings from parking fees and shared the identified locations for permanent residents found in their feasibility study.
“Based on the calculation of Nu 20 per hour, it comes to over Nu 13,000 in a day. And in one month it calculates Nu 418,200. And in one year, it fetches around Nu 501,8400,” said Tashi Namgay Sherpa, Municipal Engineer, Bajo Town.
However, the proposal was unanimously rejected.
Changa Dorji, Wangdue Phodrang
Edited by Sonam Pem
