Without a motorable bridge, every summer, the swelling Samatung River forces the farmers of Sangaythang and Zhisarthang villages of Singye Gewog in Sarpang to carry their farm products on their back to reach the other side of the river. They use the suspension bridge, but the long walk has been draining. But now, their difficult days are almost over. A motorable bridge is under construction.
The Samatung River is located between Singye Gewog Center and Sangaythang village. Vehicles can cross the river only in winter. And in summer, as the river swells, access to an easy market remains a big question.
According to Leki Wangdi, a farmer in Zhisarthang, because they remain almost cut off during summer, their farm products get spoiled most of the time.
“For instance, litchi gets spoiled a day after we harvest. We go through a lot of difficult times,” he said.
However, the Bailey Bridge which is under construction will put an end to their long due for a comfortable bridge.
“We mostly grow areca nuts and vegetables. Once we have the bridge, access to the market in Gelephu will no longer be a problem,” said Dorji Choda, another farmer in Zhisarthang
The construction of the 160-meter long bridge began in 2020 and was scheduled to be completed this year, but the pandemic delayed it.
However, it is scheduled to be completed in March next year. The Small Development Project is funding more than Nu 29 M.
Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
Edited by Sonam
