Kelzang Wangchuk | Samdrupjongkhar

The two thrompon candidates of Samdrupjongkhar thromde promised to resolve drinking water shortages in the locality by exploring reliable water sources.

During the public debate held on November 26, the candidate from Samdrupgatshel demkhong, Thinley Namgay, said since he was born and brought up in the thromde, he knows the challenges people face, and the development he needs to bring.

The 39-year-old said his top priority is to provide equal and better public services and address the water issues by supporting the ongoing water projects during the five-year tenure.

According to Thinley Namgay, since about 50 percent of the people in the thromde depend on agriculture and livestock products, he would propose a separate budget for agriculture and livestock and help them sell their products.

He said he would also promote Dewathang for tourism and Samdrupjongkhar as a business centre for the eastern region, as the National Assembly had endorsed the entry of regional tourists.

Thinley Namgay has a Bachelor’s degree in commerce and has served as thromde tshogpa of Samdrupgatshel demkhong for three years. He has also served as a Bhutan Chamber for Commerce and Industry (BCCI) representative of Samdrupjongkhar for two years.

Another candidate from Kepsi demkhong, Ugyen Wangchuk, 34, also promised to address the water problems in the thromde by exploring reliable sources and connecting a 24-hour water supply to all the residents.

He said that he would also look into the matters where people in Dewathang face challenges to pay urban land taxes, and promote Samdrupjongkhar town as an entry and exit point for international tourists.

Ugyen Wangchuk said although there are three water sources for Dewathang, residents still face water problems due to the rising population, adding that he would explore a new source at Lemsorong and supply reliable water. “I will also establish a museum in Dewathang.”

Ugyen Wangchuk has a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree from India. He worked as a teacher for four years and an administrative officer for five years before resigning.

Edited by Tashi Dema