BBSCL

The Chithuen Phendhey Association, a civil society organisation, and individuals recovering from substance use disorders are calling for systemic reforms in the country’s response to drug abuse. Speaking at a recent community-led advocacy network summit in Phuentshogling, they highlighted rising drug issues and shifting patterns of drug use in the country. Plans are underway to appeal to the Prime Minister’s...

Commuters travelling along the Samtse-Phuentsholing highway are calling on authorities to address pressing safety concerns. Poor visibility caused by fog is frequent, especially during the monsoon season and has made travelling along the newly blacktopped road increasingly dangerous. People say there is a need to install road markings, crash barriers, and traffic signs along the highway. Located at an altitude...

The Phuentshogling Dungkhag Court has sentenced a 59-year-old man to 14 years in prison for raping a 12-year-old girl. The judgment was passed last month. The judgment states that the convict, the child’s uncle, raped her multiple times between 2022 and 2023. As per the judgment, the convict cannot pay in lieu of a prison term. He also has to...

Farmers in parts of Samdrup Jongkhar grow ginger as a key source of income. They will begin harvesting the rhizomes next month. However, not all farmers are looking forward to the harvest season. Ginger growers in Martshala Gewog are concerned about low yield due to the dying of ginger plants during the growing stage. Ten Gyaltshen in Martshala Gewog is...