Foreign workers started coming into the country since the beginning of this month. But for small and medium level contractors, bringing in the workers is still a challenge. As per the standard operating procedure, the employers have to bear the expenses of COVID-19 tests, treatment and mandatory quarantine.
Until yesterday, over 40 foreign workers entered Phuentshogling. They have to produce a COVID-19 negative certificate along with other necessary documents. The workers are made to follow strict COVID-19 protocols the moment they enter the gate. Only those fit from the medical screening will be sent for the 21-day quarantine. Those unfit will be sent home immediately.
Since the employers have to bear all these expenses, only bigger companies were seen bringing in foreign workers as of now.
“Government has come up with measures to bring in foreign labourers, but it will only benefit the contractors and those building their own houses if the foreign workers are allowed to keep in quarantine in our own construction sites,” suggested Jigme Nidup, a contractor in Phuentshogling.
“We are allowed to bring in foreign workers but for a small contractor like us, it is a bit challenging. Firstly, we have to bear the expenses during the facility quarantine. Secondly, If they come out negative then it’s fine but if they test positive after that, we have to bear additional expenses,” added Dorji, also a contractor.
As per the local contractors, just to bring in one person, it will cost them more than Nu 40,000, which is too high.
Currently, only a few constructions under Phuentshogling thromde could resume with local workers.
“When we do not have foreign workers, we have to hire local workers. There is a huge difference between Bhutanese workers and Indian workers. Foreign workers are skilled, and the outcome is better, too. With them, we could finish the projects on time,” said Namgay Tenzin, a subcontractor in Phuentshogling.
Meanwhile, after the border gates were closed on March 23, most of the daily wage workers from across the border couldn’t enter the town. the COVID-19 has affected the construction sector across the country with hundreds of government and private constructions on a halt without skilled workers.
Sonam Penjor
