YK Poudel

Members of Parliament (MPs) have raised concerns over the lack of clear guidelines and support for thromde and Yenlag throm development across the country, which has hindered their development.

Kilkhorthang-Mendrelgang MP Kamal Bahadur Gurung, during the National Assembly’s question-answer session on November 29, highlighted challenges faced by thromde officials and residents in Tsirang.

He urged the need for government support in preparing local area plans (LAPs), allocating land for industrial services and workshops, and granting permission for multi-story buildings and hotels in thromde core centers.

He questioned the clarity of responsibilities for preparing LAPs and other urban development plans. He also suggested that the central government could take the lead in preparing structural or master plans for all thromdes and yenlag thromdes.“If the responsibility lies with the local government, do they have the authority, capacity, and resources to develop such plans for thromdes and yenlag thromdes?”

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Chandra Bdr Gurung clarified that the local governments are responsible for urban planning as per the Local Government Act 2009 and its amendments in 2014.

However, he acknowledged challenges faced by local governments due to lack of expertise and human resources.

Lyonpo said that the local government must discuss and decide on plans, area allocation, and procedures. He assured that the ministry is committed to providing support and assistance to local governments.

MPs also raised concerns about the overlapping responsibilities between the local governments and central government’s approval. They shared the difficulties local governments face in addressing technical expertise, budget allocation, and priority-setting issues in town planning.

Currently, the development of LAPs is carried out through public consultations to identify industrial precincts and other key areas.

To address the issue of underdeveloped thromdes and yenlag thromdes, Lyonpo said that a high-level committee would be formed to streamline the planning and approval process. He added that dzongkhags should be involved in planning and assisting local governments.

The government has pledged to develop Damphu as a tourist hub and better road connectivity among others to enhance economic opportunities.