The widening and blacktopping of the Tingtibi–Gongphu highway have reduced the travel between the two places by two hours. Earlier, it took three hours but now Gongphu and Tingtibi are just an hour’s drive apart.
The blacktopping works were completed in June.
“The road is good now, but some parts along the turnings are getting damaged. However, it’s a lot better compared to the past,” Dorji, a truck driver, said.
“The road not only benefits the general public but also the people of Panbang Dungkhag,” Sonam Dhendup from Pantang said.
Concerns have been raised over the quality of blacktopping but the Department of the Roads (DoR) officials said the works were monitored strictly and that the quality specifications outlined in the contract terms were maintained.
The widening of the 37- kilometre Tingtibi-Gongphu highway began in 2010.
The works were due for completion within the 10th-Five-Year-Plan, but several setbacks, including budget-related constraints, caused delays.
