Thinley Namgay 

Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering at a press meeting said that he would discuss how to ensure safety at archery games with the relevant authorities.

The Prime Minister said that the issue of archery-related accidents at the Changlimithang archery range is not new.

On average, 10 accident cases related to archery are referred to the national referral hospital every year.




On December 25, a 14-year-old boy was hit in the leg by a stray arrow while the boy was playing volleyball near the Changlimithang archery range.

Citing concerns from archers and non-archers, the prime minister said that it was a point of pride for archers to play at Changlimithang due to the cultural significance. However, he said that non-archers demand that the archery range be moved and replaced with other sports amenities.

“I think the safety barriers must be increased at Changlimithang. We will discuss the issue,” Lyonchhen said.

Thimphu alone has around 20 archery ranges between Dechencholing and Khasadrapchu, mostly near roads or houses, posing a danger to commuters and residents.