Hostel construction delayed in Bumthang

Thimphu: The construction of hostels for the Ugyen Wangchuck Environment and Forestry Institute in Bumthang has been delayed. The work began in June last year. The contractor of the project says it is difficult to procure local material which is delaying the construction. This is the construction of two storied hostels will house about 70 boys and girls. The work was awarded for about Nu. 25 million to Zeko construction.

Progress has however been slow. It should have been completed early this month. According to Kuenley Tenzin, the contractor, it is difficult to get local materials in Bumthang. He said he is not allowed to use locally available river boulders which are being used for other constructions. He said procuring the boulders from the quarry at Lamiogoenpa is expensive.

According to Puran Chhetri, the project site engineer, using the locally available boulders would compromise the structural quality. He said the sand from Chumey is also not the best.

According to the officiating divisional manager of the Natural Resource Development Corporation Phuntsho the sand was tested and found suitable for use.

The site engineer said as per the contract agreement the contractor is required to use quality sand and stones for the construction. He said the contract was awarded at about 32% above the estimated cost because of the difficulties that would be faced by the contractors in procuring materials.

Meanwhile the site engineer told BBS that they will ask the contractor to submit a revised work plan and based on his justification for the delay, the contract period will be rescheduled.