The long-awaited road upgrade at the servicing centre in Samdrup Jongkhar Thromde is now complete, bringing smoother and safer travel for both drivers and pedestrians. What was once a dusty and pothole-riddled stretch is now paved with concrete blocks.
For more than a decade, the internal road leading to and around the servicing centre remained in poor condition.
Now, the newly laid paver blocks have transformed the area. Residents say the change has not only improved driving conditions but has also enhanced the area’s appearance.
Vehicles can now move without the risk of damage, and pedestrians feel safer walking alongside the road.
Chorten Phuntsho, an automobile workshop owner said “Even though it is cheaper here than in India, many people still prefer going across the border. Bhutanese think it is cheaper out there. There would not be much difference. So, with the road improved for convenience, some people come here. Earlier, it was muddy during summer and dusty in winter, which made it inconvenient.”
Tenzin Jamtsho, a furniture house owner said “Earlier, the dust made it difficult to work when we made furniture and polished them. But now, with the road improved, it is convenient. This development will benefit all the residents.”
Sonam, a resident said “When the road was in bad condition, it was not much of a problem for heavy vehicles, but it was challenging for light vehicles. Passing vehicles would splash water on pedestrians. But now, it is convenient.”
Tshewang, Thromde Tshogpa of Samdrup Jongkhar Thromde said “If we blacktop the road, oil leaks from heavy vehicles can damage the surface. But with paver blocks, even if one or two blocks get damaged, we can replace it.”
Work to lay blocks started in January this year and was completed recently. Samdrup Jongkhar Thromde said paver blocks were chosen over blacktopping due to durability and ease of maintenance.
The project was completed spending around Nu 6 M.
The new road not only enhances accessibility but also reflects a step forward in infrastructure development.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Tshering Zam
