𝐑𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐭 𝟖𝟎 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭

…. 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒅𝒓𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒆𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒚𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕, 𝒃𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒈𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒕𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 𝒄𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒊𝒕𝒚

Tshering Penjor

The construction of the Royal Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCID) in Gidakom, valued at approximately Nu 2 billion, has reached 80.98 percent completion. Funded through grant assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the project is designed to strengthen the country’s healthcare capacity while generating economic and employment opportunities for the surrounding community.

According to Tshogpa Choki Dorji, although the project is still under construction, it has already contributed to visible economic activity in Gidakom.

“More than 20 shops and enterprises have benefited from increased business activity, while previously empty houses are now fully occupied, providing rental income for homeowners and stimulating the local housing market. The increased economic activity has also encouraged new businesses, including restaurants, hardware shops, and small service providers, creating a more vibrant community ecosystem in Gidakom,” he said.

The project has also created employment opportunities, particularly for local youth. Takeharu Kakeya, Project Manager of DNC, said that around 130 Bhutanese workers are currently employed at the site, within a total workforce of approximately 350 people. He said the company prioritizes the employment and placement of local staff, many of whom have decades of experience, adding that their contribution is central to the success of DNC’s projects in the country.

He further explained that the project is contributing to the development of the construction sector. “Construction has been carried out using Japanese technology and materials, in cooperation with Bhutanese contractors and suppliers, and the knowledge gained from the project is expected to contribute to improving construction technology and management capacity in the country.”

Kakeya added that the benefits of the project extend beyond the construction phase. “The centre will not only strengthen Bhutan’s healthcare system but also contribute to long-term socio-economic development in the region,” the project manager said.

Once operational, the facility will serve as a top referral hospital for infectious diseases, provide general health services to the region, and function as an educational hospital to train healthcare professionals and increase awareness about infectious disease management.

Chief Engineer Udai Pradhan said the employment opportunities generated by the project are not limited to skilled professionals. He noted that young people have gained practical experience in construction and related fields. He added that many families in the area have benefited from steady incomes earned through local employment, helping to support household needs and improve living standards.

At the same time, he said the presence of workers has encouraged the growth of shops and services to meet the needs of both workers and residents, contributing to broader economic activity in Gidakom.

For local workers such as Kinley Dorji, the project has provided an opportunity to gain experience and income. After completing Class 12, Kinley joined DNC and has been working on the project for one year. During this period, he said he has developed skills in workplace safety, health and wellness, teamwork, and technical practices, which have supported his personal and professional growth.

He also spoke about recognition received at work. He said he has earned certificates of appreciation and cash prizes for being among the monthly best workers. Kinley said that opportunities like this not only provide steady income but also allow youth to contribute to community development and acquire skills that will benefit the region over the long term.

He added that he feels proud to see Gidakom changing, with more shops, enterprises, and restaurants opening as a result of increased economic activity linked to the project. Many young people are now engaged in the construction work, gaining experience while contributing to the local economy.

Among the local businesses benefiting from this activity is Sharda Biswa, who recently opened a general store near the DNC site. She said her shop has become profitable due to increased population and foot traffic during the construction period.

The project is supported by the Government of Japan through JICA and aims to contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on good health and well being. The RCID is expected to strengthen the healthcare system, improve access to quality medical services, and build regional capacity through education and training programmes for healthcare professionals.

The project also reflects efforts to combine infrastructure development with employment generation, local business growth, and knowledge transfer in construction technology. By incorporating Japanese technology and materials in collaboration with Bhutanese contractors and suppliers, the initiative is expected to improve construction management capacity in the country.

As the RCID approaches completion, its progress highlights both its intended role as a specialised healthcare facility and its wider economic impact on the Gidakom community.