Thimphu’s recurrent water shortages may soon be a thing of the past. The Thimphu Thromde has allocated about Nu 60 M for water projects, which will be invested in new boreholes and infrastructure upgrades. These efforts aim to provide a reliable, year-round water supply and mitigate disruptions caused by seasonal shortages and infrastructure failures. According to Thromde, they expect these plans will permanently resolve the water issues once implemented.
Residents and business owners, especially in South Thimphu, are struggling with recurrent water shortages, affecting daily operations and sanitation.
Sonam Choden Tamang who owns a restaurant in Babesa faces several challenges without a reliable water supply. When there is no water supply, she has to rely on the stored water.
“When there is no water, we have to close our restaurants. Instead of serving customers, we waste time washing dishes and fetching water from home. A permanent solution from the thromde would greatly benefit everyone.”
Other restaurant owners and residents also shared similar views, hoping for a permanent solution.
“If the thromde could plan and provide a continuous water supply, year-round, it would benefit us immensely. Even if our restaurant is closed for a day, we still incur losses as we have to pay rent,” said Menuka Rai, a restaurant owner at Changzomtog.
“If the thromde could provide a solution, it would greatly benefit the residents of Thimphu. Our tank often bursts during the rainy season and it is difficult to fix it instantly. Therefore, we would be very grateful if the thromde could solve this problem,” said Chador Namgay, a resident of Babesa.
In South Thimphu, a new borehole now supplies water to Babesa during the dry season. Plans are underway to construct another borehole at Debsi to increase the water supply.
In addition, they plan to realign water transmission lines from landslide-prone areas to locations near roads.
Further, the Thromde also has six water flagship programmes, including the construction and improvement of distribution networks for South Thimphu and Pamtsho.
According to the thromde, during the monsoon, landslides wash away water transmission lines and in the dry season, drying sources hamper the water supply in these areas.
Sangay Chozom & Pema Tshomo
Edited by Sonam Pem
