National Human Settlement Policy of Bhutan 2019
The National Human Settlement Policy of Bhutan (2019) outlines a strategic framework for managing human settlements in Bhutan, emphasizing sustainable urban development, housing accessibility, and environmental conservation. The policy reflects Bhutan’s commitment to improving living standards while preserving its unique cultural and natural heritage.
Further reading:
[PDF] National Human Settlement Policy of Bhutan 2019 policy.asiapacificenergy
[PDF] Bhutan Urban Policy Notes Affordable Housing Policy openknowledge.worldbank
Context and Rationale
The document begins by acknowledging the rapid urbanization that Bhutan is experiencing, driven by economic growth and rural-to-urban migration. This trend has led to significant challenges, including inadequate housing, informal settlements, and pressure on urban infrastructure. The policy aims to address these issues by creating a structured approach to human settlement planning that aligns with the principles of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which prioritizes the well-being of citizens over mere economic growth.
Vision and Objectives
The vision of the policy is to create “sustainable human settlements that provide adequate housing and basic services for all.” Key objectives include:
- Promoting Sustainable Development: Ensuring that urban growth is environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive.
- Enhancing Housing Accessibility: Increasing the availability of affordable housing options for all income groups, particularly for economically weaker sections.
- Strengthening Urban Governance: Improving coordination among various government agencies involved in urban planning and management.
Policy Framework
The policy outlines several key components essential for effective human settlement management:
- Land Use Planning: Emphasizes the need for integrated land use planning that considers environmental impacts, community needs, and infrastructure requirements. It advocates for zoning regulations that promote mixed-use developments and prevent urban sprawl.
- Housing Development: The policy encourages the construction of affordable housing through various models, including public-private partnerships, community-led initiatives, and government-led projects. It aims to provide clear guidelines on what constitutes affordable housing based on local income levels.
- Infrastructure Development: Recognizes the importance of developing essential infrastructure—such as roads, water supply, sanitation, and waste management systems—to support growing urban populations. The policy calls for investments in sustainable infrastructure that minimizes environmental impact.
- Disaster Resilience: Acknowledges Bhutan’s vulnerability to natural disasters like earthquakes and floods. The policy incorporates disaster risk reduction strategies into urban planning to enhance community resilience.
- Community Participation: The document stresses the importance of involving communities in the planning process. Engaging residents ensures that their needs are met and fosters a sense of ownership over local developments.
Implementation Strategies
To achieve its objectives, the policy proposes several implementation strategies:
- Capacity Building: Enhancing the skills and knowledge of local government officials and communities in urban planning and management.
- Financial Mechanisms: Developing financial instruments to support affordable housing projects, including subsidies, grants, and low-interest loans.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Establishing a robust monitoring framework to assess the effectiveness of policies and programs related to human settlements.
Challenges Addressed
The policy acknowledges several challenges facing Bhutan’s urban development:
- Informal Settlements: Many residents live in informal settlements lacking basic services and secure tenure. The policy aims to regularize these areas through upgrading initiatives.
- Urban-Rural Disparities: There are significant differences in living conditions between urban and rural areas. The policy seeks to bridge this gap by promoting balanced regional development.
- Environmental Concerns: Rapid urbanization poses risks to Bhutan’s natural environment. The policy integrates environmental sustainability into all aspects of urban planning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the National Human Settlement Policy of Bhutan (2019) represents a comprehensive approach to managing urban growth while prioritizing sustainability, affordability, and community well-being. By aligning with GNH principles, the policy aims to create human settlements that not only meet the housing needs of Bhutanese citizens but also preserve the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural environment. Through effective implementation strategies and community engagement, Bhutan can navigate its urban challenges while fostering inclusive development for all its residents.