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...

The Lingzhi Dzong, a historically significant fortress in north Thimphu, was officially inaugurated today. Indian Ambassador to Bhutan, Sudhakar Dalela, inaugurated the dzong following its extensive renovation in October. Restoration work, part of the Lingzhi Dzong Conservation Project, began in 2018 after the Dzong was severely damaged in the September 2011 earthquake. The dzong was renovated with the funding support...

The Royal Audit Authority has referred four fraud and corruption cases concerning the Thimphu Thromde in the 2023-2024 financial year to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). These cases included unauthorised granting of e-PEMS access to accountants, as well as discrepancies in non-revenue receipts. Additionally, potential misappropriation of funds and deposit of government funds into personal savings accounts, among other issues were...

The health ministry said they are closely monitoring the situation regarding Mpox along the country’s borders. The ministry has strengthened surveillance at airports and border areas, ensuring that health facilities are prepared to detect and manage potential cases. Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organisation in August. Nepal...