— relocations not in the cards of Thimphu Thromde
NGAWANG JAMPHEL | Thimphu
Rumours that the automobile workshops in Olarongchhu may soon be relocated have been circulating among residents and workshop owners, creating uncertainty among businesses that have operated in the area for years.
While there has been no official announcement regarding any relocation, many people say the rumours have highlighted a more urgent concern about the poor condition of the roads within the workshop area.
The Olarongchhu workshop area serves as one of Thimphu’s busiest centres for vehicle repair and maintenance. Every day, private vehicles, taxis, buses and commercial trucks visit the area for mechanical repairs, painting, welding and spare parts. However, customers and business owners say reaching the workshops has become increasingly difficult due to damaged roads, potholes and poor drainage.
For many residents, the discussion is no longer about whether the workshops will be shifted but about why the road conditions have remained poor despite serving hundreds of people every day.
A workshop owner, Sonam (name changed), said the rumours have created unnecessary confusion among both customers and business owners.
“Almost every week someone asks whether our workshop is moving. We have heard many different stories, but none of us has received any official information. These rumours only create uncertainty,” Sonam said.
According to him, customers are often more frustrated by the road than by the services provided.
“People arrive complaining about the muddy road before they even talk about repairing their vehicles. During the rainy season, the road becomes full of water and potholes, while in the dry season dust covers everything. Improving the road would help businesses much more than talking about relocation.”
Sonam said poor road conditions also affect deliveries of spare parts and heavy equipment, increasing transportation costs and making daily operations more difficult.
Residents living near the workshop area echoed similar concerns, saying the road has been neglected for years despite the increasing number of vehicles using it.
Nima Pema Kuenchap, a resident of Thimphu, said people have become accustomed to hearing rumours, but the condition of the road remains the real issue.
“Whether the workshops stay here or move somewhere else in the future, people still have to use this road today. It has remained in poor condition for a long time, and everyone who drives through the area experiences the same inconvenience.”
He said large potholes collect rainwater, making it difficult for drivers to judge the depth of the road surface.
“Sometimes vehicles have to move at walking speed because drivers are trying to avoid damaging their cars. It causes traffic congestion, especially when several vehicles are entering or leaving the workshops.”
Another Thimphu resident, Karma Kunzang Dechen, said discussions should focus on improving public infrastructure rather than spreading rumours.
“People naturally become curious when they hear stories about relocation, but the bigger concern is the road itself. A good road benefits everyone including customers, workshop owners, nearby residents and even pedestrians.”
According to Karma, the road becomes dusty during dry months, affecting nearby homes and businesses.
“When vehicles pass, dust spreads everywhere. During the rainy season, the situation completely changes, with mud and standing water making travel difficult. These are problems people face every day.”
Several drivers visiting the workshop area also shared similar experiences. Some said they avoid visiting the workshops unless absolutely necessary because navigating the damaged road has become frustrating.
Others said poor road conditions increase wear and tear on vehicles before repairs even begin.
Workshop owners believe better infrastructure would improve customer satisfaction and create a safer environment for both workers and visitors. They say businesses are prepared to continue serving customers from the current location as long as basic infrastructure receives attention.
Although rumours about relocation continue to circulate, many people believe unverified information should not become the centre of public discussion.
“As of now, Thimphu Thromde does not have any plan to relocate the workshops at Olarongchhu. If any such decision is considered in the future, it will involve proper planning and consultations with all relevant stakeholders,” he said.
He also encouraged the public to verify information through official channels instead of relying on rumours circulating on social media or through word of mouth.
As speculation continues, residents hope the attention surrounding the issue will encourage authorities to improve the road infrastructure in the area.
For many people, the debate is no longer about where the workshops should be located. Instead, they believe ensuring safe and accessible roads should be the immediate priority.
Until any official decision is announced, the Olarongchhu workshops will continue operating from their present location. For workshop owners, customers and nearby residents alike, the expectation is simple: less attention on rumours and more action towards improving the road conditions that affect hundreds of people every day.
