Minister

3/DUDES/UPDD/2004/ 23 June 2004.

CIRCULAR

It has been noticed by the Ministry of Works and Human Settlements that various municipalities make adhoc changes on the approved urban development plans. Similarly during the execution of works through contract, changes are made that have financial implications. It is to be noted that plans are prepared in consultations with the respective Dzongdags, sector heads and the residents. Many a time such plans are also discussed in DYT. The final approval for such plans are given by the high level National Consultative Committee on Human Settlements and complex plans are even put up to the Council of Ministers.
The planning process involves identification of site, physical survey, collection of sectoral data, analysis of the data, preparation of draft plans, incorporation of changes suggested by the stakeholders, preparation of urban designs and final approval. This implies that a lot of professional input is required before a plan becomes operational. The present practice of suggesting ad hoc change will distort the plan and consistency is lost. Once the plan is approved and reaches the implementation phase adhoc changes should not be permitted.
The Ministry of Works and Human Settlements shall not approve such changes. If there is a need to change, a proposal shall be submitted for a periodic review. Submission of a proposal is not a guarantee for approval and it should not be executed till approval is accorded.

Issued for a very strict compliance.

Kinzang Dorji

Copies
1. All Minsters
2. All Secretaries
3. All Dzongdags
4. Thrompons, Thimphu/Phuntsholing.
5. The Editor Kuensel Thimphu with a request to print this circular in the forthcoming issue and send the bill to the Director DUDES for payment.