The ThimphuThromde plans to complete the road construction between Bhutan Telecom and Jungsina Bridge by October end. The work which began in May last year was supposed to end by May this year has been delayed by the lockdowns.
The base course has begun. This is to prepare the three-kilometre four-lane road for blacktopping.
“We would have completed the project if not for the lockdowns. This year, we have to work during the monsoon, which is inconvenient because our work primarily involves soil. We were supposed to import water pipes from India during the second lockdown, but we were unable to do so on time,” said Ngawang Tashi, the executive engineer of Thimphu Thromde.
According to the Chief Engineer, YeshiWangdi, the cost of the project has also doubled. Now, the project is going to cost Nu 300 M because of the wall construction.
In the meantime, motorists use this road to avoid traffic jams. But the road is bumpy and dusty and, when it rains, it becomes muddy.
“It is inconvenient. When it rains, the road conditions worsen resulting in several potholes. It is difficult particularly for small vehicles,” said Sonam Tshering, a taxi driver.
“The road condition here is very bad. We always drive with our windows closed. And when it rains, it becomes muddy and risky for us. And when the road gets blocked here, we take a different route which takes almost an hour,” said Mojesh Kumar Sunwar, another taxi driver.
“It has been a long time. It is difficult, especially on rainy days. It is also a problem for pedestrians. There is traffic congestion in this area, so we end up choosing a different route. And, we have to repair our vehicles frequently,” said Sherub Dorji, another taxi driver.
The thromde is using water tankers to control the dust. But until the construction is complete, people will have to live with it.
Pema Seldon Tshering/Karma Wangdi
