In a strategic move to bolster infrastructure development across Bhutan, the Border Roads Organization’s (BRO) Project DANTAK has formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the State Trading Corporation of Bhutan Limited (STCBL). The agreement, inked yesterday, ensures a steady provision of petrol and diesel essential for Project DANTAK’s expansive fleet of vehicles and heavy machinery.
Though the MoU is set to last for one year, it cements a four-year partnership during which STCBL has been the primary fuel supplier for the project. This continuity underscores the mutual trust and efficiency developed between the two organizations over the years.
Brigadier Rohit Gupta, the chief engineer of Project DANTAK, highlighted the significance of the MoU during the signing ceremony. “This partnership reinforces our commitment to DANTAK’s motto, ‘Connecting People-Connecting Countries’. By sourcing materials and services locally, we not only enhance operational efficiency but also support Bhutanese businesses and stimulate economic growth within the nation,” Gupta remarked.
Ajay Chauhan, the staff officer for resources at Project DANTAK, emphasized the MoU’s role in maintaining an uninterrupted fuel supply to all project sub-units. This assurance is crucial for the seamless execution of ongoing and future infrastructure projects across Bhutan. Chauhan pointed out that the previous year’s agreement was valued at over Nu 97 million, reflecting the substantial nature of this collaboration. For the current year, the forecast anticipates a supply of 1,750 kilolitres (KL) of fuel, maintaining the momentum of infrastructural advancements.
A key objective of the MoU is to guarantee continuous fuel availability, particularly in Bhutan’s eastern regions where infrastructure projects are most intensive. In the financial year 2022-23, Project DANTAK procured 1,410 KL of fuel, with an additional 1,200 KL already secured for 2024, ensuring that the project’s operations remain unhindered.
Chencho, the officiating Chief Executive Officer of STCBL, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “We are in the process of establishing fuel stations and retail outlets in Nganglam and Lhamoizingkha. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to support national development by facilitating critical infrastructure projects,” he stated.
The fuel supply and pricing under the MoU will be contingent upon Project DANTAK’s requirements and the prevailing market rates, ensuring flexibility and adaptability to changing conditions.
Since its inception in 1961, Project DANTAK has played a pivotal role in expanding Bhutan’s road network, connecting remote areas, enhancing trade routes, and improving accessibility for local communities. Recent years have seen the project deepen its collaboration with local contractors and vendors, further invigorating the Bhutanese economy through sustained local engagement.
This latest MoU with STCBL not only secures the necessary resources for Project DANTAK’s ambitious infrastructure goals but also exemplifies a successful model of public sector collaboration aimed at national development and economic resilience.
