The National Environment Commission (NEC) has slapped the Department of Roads a fine of over Nu. 300,000. The fine comes after the Roads Department refused to pay heed to the letters sent by NEC asking it to suspend the ongoing construction of bypass road and river protection wall along Paro airport.
The National Environment Commission says the construction of the bypass road and river protection wall along Paro airport has violated several rules and regulations including the country’s water act.
The letter also accuses the roads department of carrying out the constructions without a valid environmental clearance. Other violations include the department not sticking to actual work components of the project.
The National Environment Commission says the roads department has been asked to suspend the works. But the roads department ignored the warning, says NEC, forcing it to impose a fine of Nu.20,000 per day.
The Department of Roads , however, denies the allegations. It says they have not breached any rules and regulations. They also say the works are on well on track and that they will meet the deadline.
Meanwhile, the Department of Civil Aviation says the construction of the bypass road is being carried out in line with the international safety standards that require at least 75 meters gap between the runway and highways near airports. The existing road along Paro airport does not meet this safety standard.
The works began last September and is expected to be complete by next June.
