A new skill-based rehabilitation centre is under construction in Yarju, Wangdue Phodrang. The facility, designed to accommodate up to 500 inmates, is expected to be completed within the next two years.
The initiative comes as a response to rising concerns over congestion in Bhutan’s prison system. Chamgang Central Prison in Thimphu, the country’s largest correctional facility, is currently housing over 600 inmates—well beyond its official capacity of 400.
Across the country, Bhutan’s prison population has reached 2,159. To manage this surge, nearly 1,300 inmates have been temporarily deployed to 20 open-air prisons, with a large number engaged at Gyalsung national service project sites. These open-air facilities are providing immediate relief to the strained prison infrastructure.
However, authorities recognize that short-term measures alone are insufficient. The Yarju rehabilitation centre, part of the “Wholesome Open-Air Prison” project, began construction in November last year as a long-term solution. The facility aims not only to alleviate overcrowding but also to equip inmates with vocational skills that will assist them in reintegrating into society after release.
Home Minister Tshering expressed optimism about the project’s impact, stating, “After the completion of the Yarju Wholesome Open-Air Prison project, it will be able to house 500 inmates.”
By focusing on rehabilitation rather than incarceration alone, the government hopes to reduce repeat offenses and better prepare inmates for life after prison. The Yarju centre marks a step forward in aligning Bhutan’s correctional strategy with its broader goals of social harmony and human development.
