A 'mindfulness' city is coming up in Asia. It will have its own laws

After introducing the world to the concept of gross national happiness, Bhutan is now gearing up to take things a notch higher. It is planning to build a "mindfulness city" that will centre around happiness, well-being, mindfulness and meditation. The idea was floated by King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck.

Bhutan is hoping to boost its economy with this initiative as the country has been battling issues like unemployment and is mostly reliant on foreign aid.

The city, named The ‘Gelephu Mindfulness City’ (GMC), will emphasise walking and cycling to reduce emissions. It would have green spaces where people can practice meditation and relax in the midst of nature.

It would also have schools and universities where education imparted would be on the lines of mindfulness. Healthcare and wellness centres would also be a highlight of this city.

Happiness and mindfulness

The GMC will sit in a special administrative region and will have its own rules and laws, separate from other parts of the country. It will be built in an area of more than 2,500 sq km on the border with India. Different types of businesses will be offered space here.

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It will act as an economic corridor linking South Asia to Southeast Asia.

Infrastructure like roads, bridges, an airport, houses and other things will be built with investment from private partners. It is expected to take a whopping 21 years to complete the entire city.

Officials estimate that nearly 150,000 people will live there in the first 7-10 years, and over one million after all the work is done. The GMC ‘Nation Building Bond’ opened on Monday for subscription by non-resident Bhutanese and will be available until Dec 17.

Despite all kinds of economic activities, mindfulness will be at the core of the city. “Mindfulness is at the core of our values-based city and aligns with the ethos and identity of our nation,” said Rabsel Dorji, a senior GMC official.

Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage and culture will be the highlight of the city.