Thimphu Thromde Transforms a flood-prone stream into a blue-green corridor
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Thimphu Thromde, the municipal government of Bhutan’s capital, finalized a revitalization plan to turn the Memorial Chorten stream into a blue-green corridor.
The project seeks to address increasing flood risks caused by rapid construction and heavy rains in a city originally designed for a much smaller population. The stream flows past major landmarks, including the National Memorial Chorten, a Buddhist stupa, and the Royal Bhutan Police Headquarters.
The revitalization design combines engineered flood controls with nature-based solutions to protect the area and restore ecological health. Workers plan to naturalize the stream channel and restore riparian plants while building new retention ponds to capture stormwater. The plan also includes waste interception systems to reduce pollution in the waterway. The corridor will feature new walking trails, viewing areas, and solar-powered lighting to create an inclusive public space.
Designers focused on making the area accessible for women, children, older residents, and people with disabilities. The United Nations Development Programme supported the design through the Disaster Resilient Infrastructure Project, with funding provided by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. The government of Bhutan allocated roughly $24 million toward related stream corridor work.
A separate six-year initiative funded by the Global Environment Facility and the Royal Government of Bhutan also covers more than 30 kilometers of stormwater drains across central Thimphu. Officials intend for the project to serve as a model for other cities to balance disaster resilience with ecological restoration and public amenity.
