BHUTAN TODAY The New Perspective
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By Kezang Choden
In the ongoing parliament session, the Prime Minister and the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Lyonpo Chandra Bdr Gurung, outlined a set of strategic investments and policy measures focused on the development of Nganglam. A key component of this plan is the finalisation and implementation of the Nganglam Town Development Plan, which will guide the phased urbanisation and infrastructure expansion of the area.
The plan aims to bring structured growth to the town, which already holds economic significance as the location of the Dungsam Cement Corporation, one of Bhutanโs major industrial establishments. As part of the broader economic strategy, the government will establish industrial estates in Nganglam. These estates will be equipped with modern facilities and services to attract both domestic and foreign investors, thereby promoting local employment and business activity.
Infrastructure development is a priority under the Nganglam plan. The government has proposed substantial investment in improving connectivity through the upgrading of major highways, including the Nganglam-Pemagatshel, Nganglam-Gyelposhing and Nganglam-Panbang roads. These improvements are expected to strengthen transport links between Nganglam and all six eastern dzongkhags, facilitating the movement of goods, people and services in the region.
To enhance cross-border coordination, a fully integrated international checkpoint is under construction. This checkpoint will consolidate immigration, customs, security and quarantine services. It is expected to support trade, tourism and business interaction with neighbouring areas.
The plan also outlines the development of urban infrastructure such as reliable water supply systems, improved sewerage and sanitation services, and efficient waste management facilities. These efforts are aligned with the Comprehensive National Development Plan (CNDP) 2030, which aims to enhance the quality of life in rural regions through improved public infrastructure.
In addition to industrial and infrastructure initiatives, the government plans to develop agro-based industries. These are intended to support local farmers, create employment and promote food self-sufficiency. This focus aligns with national objectives to improve agricultural productivity and reduce reliance on imported food items. Goals such as market-oriented farming and rice self-sufficiency are part of the broader vision under CNDP 2030.
Ugyen Tshering, the Dzongkhag Agriculture Officer of Pemagatshel, said the dzongkhag is prioritising cereal production, with maize identified as a staple crop widely cultivated in the eastern region. He added that paddy cultivation is also being encouraged, especially in the lower parts of Pemagatshel, including Nganglam, where rice farming is more common.
Speaking about the focus on cash crop production, Ugyen Tshering said the residents of the dzongkhag are committed to farming. He added that both the dzongkhag administration and gewog offices are working to expand fruit tree plantations under the Million Fruit Trees Plantation Programme. The initiative is designed to support household income generation and the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector.
He said Pemagatshel has been exporting fruits such as citrus, avocado, mango, kiwi and lime. Building on this, ginger and cardamom cultivation has been introduced as these crops offer higher income potential for farmers. Pineapple cultivation has also been initiated in selected gewogs to diversify production. Ugyen Tshering expressed optimism that ongoing and planned initiatives will improve farmersโ livelihoods and strengthen food self-sufficiency in the dzongkhag.
Tourism is another area identified for development. The government is working on a plan to establish a tourism circuit linking Nganglam with nearby dzongkhags. The initiative is expected to boost economic activities in the eastern region. The international checkpoint in Nganglam is anticipated to serve as a gateway for visitors from neighbouring regions, contributing to the growth of tourism in the town.
The tourism strategy includes infrastructure development, promotional activities and capacity-building programmes. These measures are intended to improve services while ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach local communities.
Kezang Dhendup, the owner of Dungsam Trashiling Resort in Nganglam, expressed support for the governmentโs development plan. โWith this transformation plan, there is a real chance for businesses like mine to expand and thrive,โ he said. Having operated the resort for nine years, he said he sees potential for business growth in the area.
Kezang added that the plan could benefit not only entrepreneurs but also local farmers, who may gain improved access to markets and greater demand for their produce. He said the resort currently has a small team of employees but plans to hire more staff in the future, particularly from among the local youth. โAs the area grows, we will need more workers to meet the demand. This will create job opportunities for young people,โ he said.
He also noted that small vendors, such as those selling vegetables, could see increased business activity. As tourism and business travel to Nganglam expand, the demand for local goods and services is expected to rise. Kezang said he hopes the government will implement the development plan in a way that benefits both urban and rural communities.
Other local residents also echoed similar sentiments on the development of Nganglam, expressing hope that the proposed investments in infrastructure, industry, and tourism will generate employment opportunities and improve livelihoods. Many community members view the plan as a timely intervention that could stimulate economic activity and bring long-term benefits to the region.
Although Nganglam is not a designated technology hub, the establishment of the Gyalpozhing Tech Park in Mongar is expected to have spillover effects across the eastern region. Information and communication technology is a key focus under the CNDP 2030, which anticipates the creation of around 1,503 direct and 6,000 indirect jobs by 2035.
These jobs are expected to emerge in various sectors, including construction, logistics, manufacturing, tourism and agriculture. The government also plans to assist small and medium enterprises by improving access to markets and necessary infrastructure, supporting regional economic growth.
With improved road connectivity and planned investments, Nganglamโs location is viewed as favourable for trade and industrial development. Local stakeholders are hopeful that these initiatives will help strengthen the local economy and contribute to national development goals.
