Security: Samtse will have its own integrated check post in operation by 2018. Construction began in April 2016 and currently is in full swing.

After the construction is completed in April next year, this integrated check post will have two lanes for incoming and outgoing vehicles.

The check post will also be equipped with CCTV surveillance, and a detention room along with other modern amenities.

The integrated check post will house the offices of the Royal Bhutan Police, customs, immigration, Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority, and the forestry department. The government is funding the first of its kind check post in the country at a cost of around Nu 31 million.

The project engineer from the dzongkhag administration office, Damcho, said that 50 percent of the work has been completed so far. “The progress is in line with the work plan,” the engineer said.

Meanwhile, Samtse residents said that the integrated check post is a timely development. With major infrastructural developments currently taking place such as the development of Samtse town and the Dhamdum Industrial Park, the integrated check post will be essential.

A businessman in Samtse town said that the check post should be operational before construction starts in the industrial park. “Huge equipment will be procured to construct infrastructures,” the businessman said, adding that if industrialists do not know the height of the gate prior to procuring the equipment, it would pose challenges.

Meanwhile, integrated check posts are also being constructed in Nganglam and Phuentsholing. An integrated check post is also in the pipeline for Gelephu.

Rajesh Rai | Samtse

Advertisement