Shopkeepers in Narphung, Samdrup Jongkhar, have started dismantling their old makeshift houses to make way for new buildings, marking a long-awaited transformation for the town after decades of living in temporary structures on state land.
For more than five decades, shopkeepers in Narphung have lived in temporary structures. Following the allocation of land kidu, the Samdrup Jongkhar Dzongkhag Administration allowed plot owners to begin construction in November 2022.
However, financial constraints and cultural beliefs that last year was inauspicious delayed construction.
Leki Tshewang, a resident of Narphung, said they are now planning to build new houses by taking loans and arranging the necessary finances.
Another resident, Gerchung, said new buildings would improve the town’s appearance and help reduce disaster risks.
Meanwhile, the Gomdar Gewog administration completed a new water supply system for the township’s 15 plot owners last year.
However, waste management remains a major concern for residents, who say the town lacks a proper waste disposal facility.
Leki Tshewang said many tourists travel through Narphung, but the lack of a proper place to dispose of waste has become a major challenge. He hopes the township’s development will include a designated waste disposal facility.
Gerchung also called on the district administration to provide a waste collection vehicle to ensure regular waste collection and keep the town clean.
Located about 60 kilometres from Samdrup Jongkhar along the Samdrup Jongkhar-Trashigang highway, Narphung serves as a popular stopover for travellers.
As construction begins, residents hope the transformation will bring better buildings, improved services and a cleaner environment.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Sonam Pem
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