The much-needed maintenance works on the Samtse-Phuentshogling internal highway will begin within this month. Almost half of the 58-kilometre highway is in deplorable condition causing inconveniences to commuters. The internal road was constructed in 2006.
The condition of the highway, especially the 25-kilometre stretch from Samtse toward Weezergang is in an awful state. The road was last resurfaced in 2018.
The recent heavy downpour and the frequent movement of heavy vehicles have further deteriorated the condition of the road.
However, the condition of the road is now expected to improve.
The Department of Roads’ office in Phuentshogling has received the budget for resurfacing. The work will begin by this month.
“We could not carry out the maintenance works on the stretch for the last three to four years as we did not have any funds. However, this time, we have received about Nu 33.6 M as a budget to resurface the road. Accordingly, we have also awarded the works to the contractor,” said Karma Dorji, Chief Engineer of the Dept of Roads.
He, however, added that the budget will not be enough to resurface the entire 25 Kilometre stretch from Samtse to Weezergang.
“The budget won’t be sufficient to resurface the entire stretch. As per our assessment, about 15 to 16 kilometres of the road need immediate restoration works. The current budget will only be enough to resurface about 10 kilometres of the stretch,” added the Chief Engineer.
The regional office however assured that they are in talks with the Samtse District Administration and their head office for an additional budget.
Besides connecting Samtse with Phuentshogling, the road links Dorokha Drungkhag with the other parts of Samtse.
Passang Dorji, Samtse
Edited by Phub Gyem
