During the Second Round Question Hour Session for Ministries in Group A held today, the National Assembly deliberated on four oral questions and four written questions addressed to the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport and the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.

The Member from Dewathang-Gomdar Constituency questioned the status of the 404 MW Nyera Amari I & II Integrated Hydropower Project under the 13th Five-Year Plan. The discussion focused on feasibility studies, geological investigations, environmental and social assessments, project preparation activities, and the anticipated timeline for construction. The Minister informed the House that the DPR is being carried out. The Member from Khamdang-Ramjar Constituency raised concerns regarding mandatory geotechnical and soil testing requirements for homeowners in Thimphu, particularly the financial burden on residents. The Minister informed the House that the Ministry, in consultation with relevant agencies, is developing guidelines to address these concerns.

The Member from Phuentsholing Constituency questioned the quality and resilience of infrastructure projects, citing issues such as flash floods in the Amochu area, the Omchu bridge, and road blockages caused by construction debris. The Minister stated that investigations found contractors had carried out works according to contractual requirements, but unforeseen weather conditions and early rains affected timely implementation of preventive measures. The Ministry assured continued monitoring to avoid similar issues in the future.

The Member from Shompangkha Constituency raised concerns on increasing human-wildlife conflict, especially elephant intrusions in southern dzongkhags causing crop damage, property loss, and threats to human safety. The Minister informed the House that, in addition to crop insurance and chain-link fencing support, the Ministry is developing a National Human Wildlife Casualty Relief and Accountability Framework in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

Additionally, written questions were tabled concerning occupational health and safety requirements in the construction sector, labour welfare and safety compliance, and other sectoral matters under the respective ministries.