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MoIT says the relocation plan remains unchanged, with detailed design works scheduled for completion in FY 2026–2027
The proposed relocation of Thimphu’s crematorium from Hejo to Hongtsho remains unchanged, with construction targeted for completion by 2029, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MoIT) Secretary Karma Wangchuk said during the 32nd Meet-the-Press session on 9th October 2026.
The project has been delayed due to challenges in finalizing the detailed designs, including the incorporation of appropriate technologies, construction practices and modern amenities required for the crematorium infrastructure.
The Secretary said the ministry is reviewing the scope of work for the detailed design phase and plans to engage specialised experts to prepare the designs and construction drawings, ensuring the infrastructure is built to last for the next 100 years.
The detailed design works are scheduled to be completed in the 2026–2027 financial year.
The approved budget for the project is Nu 600 million (mn), of which cumulative expenditure to date stands at Nu 5.47 mn.
He said that the ministry had earlier engaged a local consultancy firm to develop detailed designs in line with the completed high-level master plan. However, the concept designs could not be finalized, delaying the preparation of construction drawings and subsequent implementation.
The Secretary said the government is not pursuing any alternative location for the crematorium.
A site-selection study considered three locations, Bjemena, Hongtsho and Genekha.
Hongtsho was selected as the most suitable site because of its relative proximity to Thimphu and accessibility.
The project area covers approximately 46.45 acres, including around 10.20 acres of private land belonging to 11 landowners.
The MoIT and the Dzongkhag Administration have completed the land acquisition process and finalized the compensation assessment.
The MoIT has also prepared several design options in consultation with stakeholders, including the Zhung Dratshang, to ensure that the proposed facility meets functional requirements while remaining culturally appropriate and responsive to religious practices.
Meanwhile, the ministry acknowledged public concerns about the longer travel distance to Hongtsho, additional transportation costs for bereaved families and the absence of a nearby river or stream for disposing of ashes.
To address these concerns, the ministry is exploring proposals to upgrade the existing bus service and introduce a dedicated transport service for visits to dispose of ashes.
A hybrid cremation system is also being considered.
The existing Hejo crematorium will continue operating under the current arrangements until the Hongtsho facility is completed and the transition plan is in place.
In the long term, the Hejo crematorium site is planned to be developed into a green and sustainable area in line with the broader Thimphu-Paro regional strategy.
