… being studied

Thromde: A task force will be formed to study and determine what the standard plot size should be for which a house can be constructed on.

Representatives from the four thromdes and the Ministry of Works and Human Settlement (MoWHS) will form the task force.

This was decided following a discussion during the fifth Annual Thromde General Meeting that concluded in Phuentsholing yesterday.

During the discussion on problems related to plot sizes being too small, MoWHS minister Dorji Choden said that the minimum size of a plot is a problem.

Lyonpo Dorji Choden suggested that a task force be formed to study the issue first rather than just providing “blanket approval.”

Thimphu Thrompon Kinlay Dorjee pointed out that all thromdes are affected. He added that the minimum plot size was determined to be seven decimals at one point but the issue was not finalised then.

Thrompon Kinlay Dorjee suggested forwarding recommendations to the National Land Commission for direction.

Speaking to Kuensel, Lyonpo Dorji Choden said that the measure is being introduced not to create problems for those with small sized plots in the thromdes but to find the minimum allowable size for construction of houses.

“We cannot compromise the livability of the people,” Lyonpo said, adding that some people live in narrow, congested, and irregular houses.

The minister said while there is nothing that can be done about small sized plots that are inherited ascertaining the standard minimum plot size for house construction is important.

MoWHS secretary Phuntsho Wangdi also said that there are some plots that measured three to five decimals. “Some are due to poor planning and regulations,” he said. “Urban growth is also very fast.”

Many other issues were also discussed during the coordination meeting. Along with the presentation of APA targets and success indicators by the four thromdes, various other issues were tabled for discussion.

As thromdes presented their findings of annual performance, customer assessment and satisfaction was also highlighted.

“You may connect pipes for water connection but are the people getting the water?” Lyonpo Dorji Choden asked, emphasising the importance of assessments.

Lyonpo pointed out the importance of ascertaining what customers are receiving and that it will build confidence in the thromdes as a service provider.

Thrompon Kinlay Dorjee said it would be better to have a third party ascertain this.

Another issue discussed was the new tax or tariff system, which the thromdes have submitted to the finance ministry. The thromde taxing scheme has not changed since 1992 despite the growth in the thromdes.

Rajesh Rai | Phuentsholing