With problems ranging from high tolls for large trucks to malfunctions with the FAS TAG system, traversing Bhutan’s southern borders with India has grown more challenging. Because the Lhamoizingkha border gate is a biological corridor and protected region, visitors are not permitted entry after 6 p.m. During a recent meeting of the National Assembly, these difficulties were emphasized. Lamdra Wangdi expressed concerns to the MoFAET about their intentions to deal with these problems in the short and long run. He claimed that travelers find it bothersome that they must pay between Nu 4,000 and Nu 5,000. In order to find answers, MoFAET Minister DN Dhungyel recognized the challenges that travelers experience and stated that the government is currently negotiating with pertinent Indian agencies.
Lyonpo emphasized that in order to discuss these urgent concerns, the Royal Bhutanese Embassy in New Delhi has suggested a meeting with India’s NHAI. Using their registration numbers, the government has suggested adding all Bhutanese automobiles to the FAS TAG system. According to Lyonpo, in order to facilitate service delivery, the government would give the Indian government the Bhutanese car registration numbers. According to him, the Indian government has given the plan positive feedback and is now awaiting official permission. Lyonpo described current infrastructure projects meant to enhance connection along the southern border.
