Some public infrastructure issues facing Thimphu residents stem more from a lack of regular maintenance than from a need to build bigger or more elaborate facilities. Overgrown grass along roads, clogged drains, and poorly maintained road surfaces are some of the problems that could be addressed through routine upkeep. As the capital continues to grow, residents say regular inspection and proper maintenance are essential to ensure that roads remain safe, drains function effectively, and avoidable problems are prevented, especially during the monsoon.
Overgrown vegetation spreading across road edges and growing around roadside drains has become a common sight.
Apart from making the surroundings look untidy, the unchecked growth coupled with choked drains is raising concerns among residents.
Building owners, requesting anonymity, say the overgrown vegetation along roadsides is obstructing visibility, causing safety concerns.
In addition, whenever there is heavy rainfall, the drainage system struggles to carry away the water, often leading to overflowing onto road surfaces.
“They come to clean twice a year. We also have to call them since they are busy as they have to cover a lot of places. When we face problems during heavy rainfall, they do come. However, when it rains and the drains get blocked, the water flows directly into my place. They don’t normally inspect and come to clean. The clogged drains cause a lot of issues. When the water overflows, there is nowhere for it to go. The drain in front of my house is broken, and the water overflows,” said a building owner in Thimphu.
For residents living near these drains, the problem goes beyond inconvenience. The rainwater even overflows into their homes, leaving families worried during heavy rainfall.
“During summer, the drain water gets bigger. It gets inside the house, and we can’t sleep. When we complained to Thromde, they said there is no budget and will look into it later,” added another building owner.
And it is not just the drainage system that residents say needs attention. The condition of some roads is also making daily travel difficult.
“The roads are poorly maintained. As one side of the road is bad, people use the wrong side while driving. It is very risky. We complained several times. They came and just covered it with sand. Whenever it rains, the road gets bad, and it is hard to commute,” said a house owner.
Residents say regular grass cutting, drain clearance, and timely road repairs are important not only for the city’s appearance but also for public safety and convenience.
Meanwhile, the Thimphu Thromde says maintenance of roadside greenery and beautification works is ongoing as usual. The thromde office adds that roads within the core town area are regularly maintained, although they are unable to carry out timely maintenance of roads outside the core town due to a shortage of labourers.
However, residents remain hopeful that damaged drains and roads will also receive timely attention, so they do not have to wait until problems arise. For the residents, keeping existing infrastructure in good condition is as important as building new ones.
Anita Chhetri
Edited by Phub Gyem
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