Residents of Singye Gewog in Sarpang will soon experience smoother travel as the Department of Surface Transport nears completion of blacktopping the gewog road. The project, expected to finish in three months, promises to enhance connectivity and create new economic opportunities for the community.
The road, built in 2016, had not undergone major maintenance due to budget constraints. Now, as part of efforts to develop sustainable infrastructure for Gelephu Mindfulness City, the Department of Surface Transport is redeveloping the 9-kilometre stretch. Since February, the department has been constructing drains, retaining walls and preparing for blacktopping.
Singye Gup Jigme said, “To undertake full-scale road maintenance and repair with a gewog grant was not feasible, as we had other priorities to address. Despite these constraints, we managed to carry out basic road maintenance once a year with the available funds.”
The residents say the newly developed road will provide smoother and faster travel, connecting them to essential services, markets, and neighbouring areas.
“We are pleased that the road is being constructed, as it will greatly improve travel conditions. At the moment, travelling is inconvenient, especially for the elderly and those who are unwell,” said Gautam Subba, a resident.
“Blacktopping the road would greatly improve its condition,” said Dhan Maya Rai, a resident.
“Currently, vehicle movement causes disturbance and dust. We are happy that the road will soon be properly built,” added another resident, Sanchu Maya Subba.
The redevelopment works are funded by the Government of India at a cost of almost Nu 26 M.
Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
Edited by Sangay Chezom
