In a major relief for the residents of Shumar, Khar and Chongshing Gewogs in Pema Gatshel, a bailey bridge has been built over the Marung stream. The bridge was launched a week ago. Now the people can cross the river without having to risk their lives. Until now, people would use the temporary wooden bridge over the river or the Khothagpa-Khar feeder road.
The stream swells during the monsoon and it becomes a nightmare for parents who have to reach their children at Khar Primary School. But this summer, it will be a different tale. The bailey bridge will bring an end to the hardship of both the parents and the children.
“In the past, we have to worry whenever our children go to school. We were in constant fear that our children might get washed away. Both parents and children faced lots of difficulties. But now we are relieved. The students can also reach schools on time,” said Namkha Dorji, a parent.
“Some parents can’t afford to hire a car to travel via the Khothakpa-Khar feeder road. So, we had to let our children walk. The bridge will make the route shorter and it will benefit us all,” said Rinchen Zangmo, another parent.
The Dzongkhag Engineering sector was supposed to launch the bridge last year. However, due to the pandemic and the shortage of budget, the office said they couldn’t launch the bridge.
The bridge was constructed with a budget of almost Nu 7 M.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sangay Chezom
