Phuentsholing is set to modernize its waste management system with the construction of a cutting-edge sewage treatment plant, replacing its decades-old lagoon-based setup. The new facility will feature a 6 million liters per day (MLD) sewage treatment capacity alongside a 3 MLD water treatment system, marking a significant leap in the town’s sanitation and environmental management.
The initiative is a central component of the Phuentsholing Township Development Project (PTDP), a comprehensive urban renewal plan that also includes upgrades to roads, footpaths, drainage systems, and other key public utilities. Project Director Kamal Dhakal confirmed that work in Zone A is already 93% complete, with the entire project scheduled for completion by December 2024.
Funded primarily by the Asian Development Bank, with additional contributions from Druk Holding and Investments (DHI), the PTDP aims to transform Phuentsholing into a more resilient and economically vibrant urban center. The improvements are designed not only to strengthen flood defenses but also to create better transportation networks, reclaim valuable land, and enhance public recreational spaces.
Local officials say the new sewage system will ensure cleaner waterways, reduce health risks, and support the town’s growth for decades to come. Once operational, the plant is expected to handle the city’s waste more efficiently and sustainably, setting a benchmark for urban infrastructure development in Bhutan.
