BBSCL

Delays in fully commissioning the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project are expected to affect economic growth in 2024. The country’s economy is now projected to grow by five per cent this year, over one percentage point lower than earlier estimates. The finance ministry, in its latest macroeconomic situation report, said that the downward revision was mainly due to the PHPA-II commissioning delay...

Sheep-rearing, once a key livelihood for the people of  Sakteng Gewog in Trashigang, is gradually declining. Today, only 40 households rear sheep for wool to weave their traditional dresses. However, feral dogs are posing a significant threat. The dogs kill 30 to 40 sheep each year, further discouraging the rearing practice. The feral dogs hide in bushes and along the...

Farmers of Tashichhoeling Gewog in Samtse, who depend on areca nut farming, are struggling with frequent elephant attacks. These elephants damage homes, threaten lives, and destroy betel nut trees, undoing years of hard work. Frustrated by the losses, the affected farmers are urging authorities to implement stronger measures and provide damage compensation caused by elephants and other wildlife. Elephants have...

Sanitation and hygiene in healthcare centres have seen significant improvements nationwide in recent years according to local leaders and health officials. They attribute this to the introduction of the Water and Sanitation for Health Facility Improvement Tool or the WASH FIT programme. However, they are now calling for more inclusive facilities to better accommodate persons with disabilities, the elderly and...