Commuters along the Zhemgang–Gelephu highway are frustrated with the poor blacktopping works on the road. The contractor responsible for the project has been accused of compromising the quality, resulting in a road that still looks dilapidated. The Department of Surface Transport terminated the contract in April this year due to slow progress and repeated contract time extensions.
The blacktopping work along the 11.3-kilometre stretch from Tamala Pass to Tama Gonphai village began in late 2021. It was initially supposed to complete in October last year. However, the contractor was given a contract extension till May this year. But he failed to finish the job.
As a result, half of the stretch is still bumpy and rough. Motorists who regularly use the highway expressed their disappointment and said the road started deteriorating shortly after being blacktopped. Potholes have emerged and the seal coats have been damaged.
“These days, we can see that only half of the road has been blacktopped while the other half remains undone. No one is taking the responsibility and it’s unclear who should be held accountable, the government or the contractor. The work has been left unattended, leaving us frustrated. While the contractor did a good job on certain portions, some sections have been left undone and we don’t know the reasons behind it,” said Minjurla, a resident of Kikhar, Nangkor Gewog.
“There were about three contractors assigned for the blacktopping works. Unfortunately, most left the job half-done, resulting in poor workmanship. The delays and the poor quality of work have caused inconveniences to motorists,” said Dorji, another resident.
“This blacktopping work began about a year ago and the condition of the road remains the same as before. It would be highly appreciated if the concerned agencies could expedite the work process,” said Chencho, a driver from Gelephu.
The Primary National Highway connects the south, central and eastern regions through Tingtibi. About Nu 30 M was allocated for the blacktopping of the Tamala pass to the Tama Gonphai village stretch.
Pema Samdrup, Zhemgang
Edited by Sonam Pem
