In Sarpang, commuters travelling along the Chhoekhorling road in Dekiling Gewog are set to benefit from a much-needed road blacktop. A 3.1-kilometre stretch from the Gelephu-Sarpang highway till Jigme Wangchuck Power Training Institute is being blacktopped. Until today, the road was riddled with potholes, making travel inconvenient.
The road was blacktopped in 2013 and since then, no major maintenance was carried out.
The road is used by residents of Chhoekhorling in Dekiling Gewog, Chhudzom Gewog, a school and an institute.
The blacktopping works along with drainage construction started last month and is expected to be completed by July.
To improve pedestrian safety, a cemented box drainage system is being constructed up to Chhoekhorling Middle Secondary School. The top of the drain will be covered with cement slabs, creating a footpath for students to walk safely to and from school.
With this improvement, commuters are relieved that they will no longer have to endure pothole-ridden and dusty conditions.
Pema Dorji Sherpa, a taxi driver said “In the past, our vehicle maintenance cost was high due to poor road condition. With the blacktop, we will be benefitted.”
Kamal Badhur Ghalley, a resident of Chhoekhorling said “It will benefit us. We were suffering from dust pollution and stagnant water earlier. We appreciate the government for carrying out resurfacing work with drainage facilities.”
Likewise, Purna Badhur Moktan, another taxi driver said “The road has been blacktopped once and damaged in two to three years’ time. We faced inconveniences. Sometimes, the lower portion of the vehicle gets damaged and the fuel leaks taking time to reach the destination. Now, we are happy with the blacktopping works.”
The government is spending Nu 15.9 M for the blacktopping works.
Once complete, the improved road will provide safer and smoother travel for commuters, students, and residents in the area.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Tshering Zam
