FOREWARD

This urban development plan for Bajothang, approved by the National Consultative Committee on Human Settlements represents a milestone in managing and directing future investments for the planned urbanization of Wangduephodrang township.

The continuing diversification of the economic base within the dzonkhag, from a predominantly agro based lifestyle to a more commercialized and monetized economy in the form of service centres, tourism and resort development, hydro power projects, and the proposed International Airport, undoubtedly requires a viable urban centre with ample scope for future expansion. The 15 ha new township area at Bajothang would be able to accommodate the population of Wangdue township until the year 2020.

The built environment of the new township at Bajothang will conform to the existing rules and regulations on urban development, namely the Bhutan Building Rules, Water and Sanitation Rules, Urban Roads Guidelines, and the Traditional Architecture Guidelines.

The provision of all essential urban infrastructures in the new town area and the allocation of plots for private development would, besides further enhancing the living environment, help the resident take ownership of their new permanent township.

The Municipal Boundary for Wangdue township has been extended to include all the urban growth hubs in the periphery of the existing town. The preparation of a comprehensive structural plan is also underway to plan the anticipated growth within the areas of the extended Municipal Boundary and to ensure that a safe no-development Zone is left alongside the Puna Tsang Chhu and the Dang Chhu. The feasibility of s shorter and more direct access into the Bajothang township is also being studied at the present moment.

All development plans are dynamic living documents which would require timely and frequent reviews. As such, this urban development plan for Bajothang shall also be reviewed from time to time in close consultation and co-ordination with all the stakeholders involved.

It is envisaged that the successive chairpersons of the Town Committee would ensure that the developmental activities within the Municipal Boundaries are executed in accordance with the urban development plan and in compliance with above cited existing planning regulations.

(Leki Dorji)

Chairman
National Consultative Committee on Human Settlements