BBSCL

In what seems like a repeat of past challenges, the export of betel nut via Samtse has come to an abrupt halt. The clearance certificate from India’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade expired last month, forcing exporters to divert their shipments once again. While prices have remained high, traders are starting to feel the pressure. The road to India via...

The widening and blacktopping of the Khothakpa-Tshelingor highway were completed in 2023 in Pema Gatshel. However, a stretch of about 200 to 300 meters at Cherungri remains unattended. The delay was due to the area’s instability at the time. Now, with improved ground conditions, travellers are hopeful that blacktopping work will begin soon. Heavy trucks climb slowly up a dusty,...

Residents of several villages in Chhukha's Bjabchho Gewog are eagerly awaiting the long-overdue repair of their farm road. Villagers have been facing difficulty while transporting their farm produce due to the poor road condition. They said if the road is improved, it will significantly boost agricultural activities and improve livelihoods. Farmers here grow a wide variety of crops and vegetables....

A two-week neurosurgery camp is currently underway at the national referral hospital. Three doctors from Siriraj Hospital in Thailand along with a Bhutanese medical team, will perform 21 major surgeries that would otherwise require referrals abroad. The camp aims to reduce overseas referrals and foster skill exchange between Thai and Bhutanese doctors. The collaboration focuses on surgeries related to skull...