The Bhutanese Leading the way.
The suspension of commercial activities at the Taktshang base camp was implemented as part of the national heritage site management plan, which places the area within a buffer zone where such activities are strictly prohibited.
The Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development suspended the commercial activities at the base camp of Paro Taktshang affecting 27 handicraft vendors who held valid trade licenses and were provided infrastructure by the Department of Tourism.
Lyonpo Tshering, Minister of Home Affairs (MoHA) shared that this measure is crucial to preserve the safety, security, and cleanliness of the heritage site, ensuring a high-quality experience for visitors.
He said that similar measures have been successfully executed at other heritage sites, such as Dechenphu Lhakhang in Thimphu and Chimi Lhakhang in Punakha, where shops were relocated.
In response to the suspension, the affected vendors were presented with three options for their handicraft items.
First option, where the government would purchase the handicraft items from vendors at 80 percent of their valuation. Second, where the vendors could sell their handicrafts from their residences, and third option is for the vendors to sell their items in the Paro Kaja Throm.
During consultations, the vendors expressed a preference for the government procurement option. The total valuation of the handicraft items was determined to be around Nu 17 million.
Although the fund for compensation was sought during previous government’s tenure, the poor economic condition at the time prevented the allocation of funds. However, recognizing the importance of compensating the vendors and suspending sales in the buffer zone, the ministry has resubmitted the budget requirement to the government.
Lyonpo Tshering said, “We are actively working on securing the necessary funds, and we assure you that this issue is being treated with the utmost priority. The government is committed to resolving this matter and providing the promised compensation to the affected vendors as soon as possible.”
