The Bhutanese Leading the way.
A petition to increase the maximum permissible building height in Dzongkhag Yenlag Throms from the current two storeys to five was tabled in the National Assembly by the Member of Parliament from Bongo-Chapcha constituency, Pempa.
The petition, forwarded by the Chukha Dzongkhag Tshogdu, called for a revised regulations based on population size to promote equitable development and enhance community livelihoods.
The proposal triggered extensive deliberations in the House, where members acknowledged that restrictive height limits are a concern in many dzongkhags.
The Minister of the Ministry Infrastructure and Transport (MoIT), Chandra Bdr Gurung, shared that although Yenlag Throms have been identified, further developments remain on hold due to a Supreme Court order.
Lyonpo Chandra Bdr Gurung shared that the ministry is working with a High-Level Committee to explore strategies and is expected to reach a decision soon.
As part of the assessment, MoIT plans to deploy a team of experts to dzongkhags starting from June 2025 in Samtse. The team will consult with local governments, stakeholders, and communities to study ground realities and development trends before considering changes to existing regulations.
Until such time, the general provision of the Bhutan Building Regulation 2023 shall remain in force to guide the development in the unplanned areas.
Lyonpo said that currently there is no urban plan, the maximum number allowed as of now is up to three storeys and 40% ground coverage, with additional height permitted in specific cases based on population pressure and development needs.
The general guideline was raised from two to three storeys in 2018 to harmonize urban growth with traditional housing patterns.
He said that the development control regulation is formulated and there are cases where the building heights are permitted up to 6 floors when the settlement requires to accommodate the increasing population and development pressure.
He also highlighted the case of Tsirang, which despite its proximity to the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), is prioritizing the preservation of its current urban design.
The House advised the ministry to develop location-specific guidelines rather than applying uniform standards nationwide.
To ensure strategic planning, the ministry is currently working with the Cabinet to clarify the status and legal boundaries of Yenlag Throms. The Office of the Attorney General is conducting legal vetting.
The House assigned the Environment and Climate Change Committee to review the issue in detail and submit a report during the upcoming winter session.
