Trashigang Dzongkhag Tshogdu has decided to write to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport to reconsider widening the Trashigang-Rangjung Secondary National highway in the current Five-Year Plan. Local leaders said that widening work is not included in the plan but there is a need for widening as the road is narrow and poses risks to travellers.
The 17-kilometre road from Trashigang to Rangjung is used by eight gewogs to travel to and from Trashigang.
Every day, more than 350 vehicles use the road to visit the district administration, avail themselves of healthcare services, and for business.
Local leaders said with increasing number of vehicles, it has become important to widen the road.
The local leaders during the recent Dzongkhag Tshogdu said widening the road is one of the pledges by the present government in its election campaign.
Jigme Thinley, Shongphu Gup said “we thought our government will include it in the plan. But, we learned that it is not included. So, the road condition will remain as it is. During election campaign, both the political parties have pledged to widen the road. However, it is not in plan and people are wondering.”
Jamyang, Samkhar Gup said “people of three chiwogs in Samkhar Gewog also travel on that road. Peoples are worried as the road is narrow and risky while travelling. It has become an accident-prone area.”
Younten Phuntsho, Rangjung town representative said “in case the Gamrichhu Project gets started, the present road needs to be widened. Residents of around seven to eight gewogs are already using this road and if the project is started then, we need the road widened.”
Meanwhile, infrastructure and transport minister, Chandra Bdr Gurung during the recent Meet The Press session said the work is not included in the current five-year plan considering other priorities.
“It does not mean that road is not important. I personally know the problem but due to limited budget, we could not include it in the plan. Experts prioritise the works, which are important. For example, the Northern East West highway and the Southern East West highway are our priorities.”
The minister added that while it is not included in the plan, there are chances as the government will look for funds.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
Edited by Tshering Zam
