Neten Dorji

Trashiyangtse—Residents of the new Doksum town in Trashiyangtse are frustrated over the protracted delays in the construction of the sewage network—a long-standing issue that has seen little improvement despite repeated complaints.

Initially slated for completion by June 2023, the project, which also encompasses road improvements, sewage connection, and parking facilities, has missed its deadline and is now projected to be finished by September 2024.

Despite this extension, there has been little progress, leading to dissatisfaction among the local community.

Many residents feel that the dzongkhag administration has failed to address the situation.

Frustrated local business owners said that both the contractor and the dzongkhag officials have ignored the problems for a long time.

“Without a sewerage network connection to the building, we have to request other building owners to use their toilets,” building owner, Sangay Choda, said.  “With staff from the Kholongchu project expected to rent houses in the area, the timely construction of the sewage chamber is critical.”

The sewage issue in Doksum is further compounded by the lack of a proper drainage system.

Another resident, Jigme, said that he allowed two owners of buildings to temporarily connect their sewage to his building—a situation that he fears could lead to future problems.

“The lack of a proper sewage connection has led to misunderstandings among the building owners,” he explained. “The planners did not leave enough space between each plot for building drains and sewage, which has caused these issues.”

Another business owner, Ugyen Sonam, emphasised the importance of connecting sewage from buildings to pipes leading to the treatment plant. “We are not required to build septic tanks,” he said, noting that the treatment plant would be useless if it cannot be properly utilised.

Residents are also questioning why the contractor has taken so long to construct the sewage chambers. And some business owners suggested that the contractor should be terminated for failing to complete the work on time.

“This delay is an unnecessary burden on the government and residents. We want quality work, delivered on time,” said one businessman, attributing the delays to a lack of proper monitoring from the dzongkhag.

The contractor’s failure to meet the deadline was discussed at the Dzongkhag Tender Committee meeting.

Site Engineer Nima Tshering said that the committee is closely monitoring the situation and following up with the contractor.

“With only the installation of the sewage chamber remaining, the committee decided not to terminate the contract since 95 percent of the work is already completed,” he said, adding if the work is further delayed, they are going to terminate the contract.

It has been learnt that the project is currently in the liquidated damages period, with the laying of the sewage pipeline completed as planned. The sewage chamber is on its way from Samdrupjongkhar and is expected to be installed soon.

A budget of Nu 7.90 million was allocated for the improvement of roads, drainage, sewerage network connection, and vehicle parking development in Doksum Town.

Dzongkhag officials said that the public also should take initiative in maintaining already developed infrastructure, such as drains, roads, and surrounding areas.

“When the government supports them, it is also important for residents to take ownership of already developed infrastructure,” said one official.