How Can We Think Better

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I recently came across an interesting cover about Thimphu Thromde's plan to introduce parking fees from Changilimithang till the south end. This proposal has sparked a lot of personal opinions. If it is implemented effectively, it could easily generate significant national revenue that would support and sustain essential infrastructure development.

I have a few things to share based on my personal experiences and observations. It's crucial that we move towards a more fair and transparent approach to managing this sector, as our traditional methods seem to fall short of national expectations.

The current human-managed ticketing system, though providing employment for our youth, is not achieving its intended goals. More importantly, we need to consider the lessons we are passing down to these parking fee collectors.

For the present population and the number of vehicles in the country, there are enough parking spaces to be used by all at least in our towns. So to make it tension-free and systematic, why not start an automated system to look after this space. Parking time could range from as little as 15 minutes to a maximum of 2 hours of free parking or paid parking based on location.

In many areas, a simple but effective principle is in place: within the designated time, drivers are mindful of sharing the space with others. This 2-hour free parking window allows drivers to reach their destination, shop, or dine, and return within the allotted time, promoting equitable use of the space.

If someone needs to stay longer due to emergencies or events, they can make a payment through a machine to avoid paying fines. This system fosters mindfulness, responsibility, and a sense of community. To me, instilling such civic sense is paramount. I envision a parking system that is more regulated, systematic, fair, convenient, and efficient than the current human-managed system.

Whenever I consider driving around Thimphu or other towns with parking fees, I hesitate—not because I can't afford it, but because I have often felt overcharged. I have observed numerous instances where collectors have falsely claimed time and fees. In some cases, I have even seen collectors exempt certain drivers they know, such as friends, relatives, or those with high-end vehicles.

I believe the current parking fee collection system is flawed. We must ask ourselves, are we improving? Are we setting a good example for the younger generation? Can we still claim a lack of sufficient funds?

I often feel that our parking system is vulnerable to manipulation. The collected funds seem susceptible to multiple layers of manipulation before reaching government accounts. 

Let me share one example from Damphu Town, Tsirang, where a parking system was introduced. The town, with around 100 parking spaces, does not have a parking fee collection system for its small size. In 2022, the Dzongkhag committee implemented crazy measures to manage parking. 

A 30-minute parking limit was introduced, requiring parked vehicles to keep their parking lights on. I've seen police personnel patrolling the area to ensure compliance, even using whistles to alert drivers when their time runs out. While the idea was generally well-received, some shop owners felt it was unfair. Although I found the concept interesting, it doesn’t seem sustainable in the long run. Human-managed systems are prone to manipulation, leading to unfair practices and fatigue.

I am not sure how it is functioning now, but I feel that the committee should have a backup plan/plan B with clear vision and commitment. It could have easily become successful within a few months if it was done in a good manner. The plan would have gone right with continuing promoting it through in-person advocacy, social media, local TV channels, and direct communication with citizens, emphasizing its immense benefits. 

They should also consider making parking signs and placards. Once the trial or warning period ends, implementing fines could help enforce compliance. With consistent efforts, we might eventually see a more organized and mindful community.

I believe this was a good start, but with a more sustainable plan and ongoing effort, it could surely become a a national move. 

We wish to see improved systems across all areas of our development to avoid falling behind and regretting missed opportunities due to falsely caliming insufficeint time and resources. 

I would like to respectfully point out that Thimphu Thromde officials have a lot of home work ahead for the town, including the need for an effective waste management system. The longer we delay, the more we risk fostering complacency among residents.