Thimphu Thromde opens two service centres, launches WhatsApp chatbot

The two service centres are located inside the BNB building in Olakha and at the vegetable market in Jungzhina.

Building owners and vendors can visit the centres to pay water bills, garbage and amenities fees, and rent for commercial spaces.

Thrompon Ugyen Dorji said the centres were established in the northern and southern parts of Thimphu to bring municipal services closer to residents.

The northern centre will serve areas including Dechencholing, Taba, Jungzhina, Langjophakha and Hejo, while the southern centre will cater to Semtokha, Babesa, Olakha and Changzamtog.

According to the Thrompon, the centres are expected to save residents time and travel costs by reducing the need to visit the main Thromde office, where traffic congestion and limited parking can make accessing services difficult.

Vendor Deuki Gurung said the new centre had made rent payments more convenient.

“Earlier, we had to visit the Thromde office and wait in long queues to pay our rent. Now, with the service centre located right next to our shops, the process has become much more convenient and easier for us,” she said.

Alongside the two centres, Thimphu Thromde has introduced an official WhatsApp service chatbot. Residents can use the service to submit applications for Thromde services, reducing the need to visit the office in person.

The two initiatives are intended to strengthen citizen engagement and make municipal services more accessible and convenient for residents.