The next time you are in Phobjikha, you can expect a better road. The works to blacktop Phobji Gewog’s road is in full swing. Moreover, this time, the district administration is focusing on making the stretch more durable besides finishing the project on time.
Along with the machines, more than 20 people have been working since April to resurface the gewog’s road. It was first blacktopped in 2017.
The district’s engineering sector is adopting a few techniques to make the road more resistant to the cold and damp climate in the area. The blacktopping thickness is increased to about four inches.
“Earlier, it was only an inch. And for the drains, we have used the French drain technique under them. It prevents ground and surface water from damaging the road’s foundation. This will help to make the road more durable,” said Ngawang Dorji, the Asst. Engineer of the Engineering Sector in Wangdue Phodrang.
Once the road is blacktopped, the people of Phobjikha expect to receive more visitors in the valley known for black-necked cranes and picturesque landscape.
“Most people of Gangtey and Phobji cultivate potatoes. So, a better road will help them transport the crop in time. We also have homestays in Phobji which the road will benefit. It would encourage more visitors and foster socio-economic development in the community,” said Jamtsho, the Phobji Gup.
According to the residents, the current road is inconvenient when they have to drive loaded vehicles. “Our vehicles suffer damages. Moreover, we pay double the fare if we hire a taxi from Gangtey and travel through the Tabading area because of the road’s poor condition,” said Tshering Dorji, the Khyimdro Nemphel Tshogpa under Phobji Gewog.
“The road’s bad condition has been a problem for us. It is difficult to drive through when it rains. But now, we are happy the maintenance works have started,” a resident said.
The district administration is spending around Nu 9 M to blacktop the road. The works are expected to be complete by April next year.
Changa Dorji, Wangdue Phodrang
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
