After years of delay and frustration, the much-anticipated Samrang-Jomotshangkha Highway in Samdrup Jongkhar is finally showing signs of progress. Blacktopping has begun, bringing relief to the remote villages of Jomotshangkha Dungkhag.
The highway project, which began in 2016 was initially scheduled for completion by 2023. However, it faced repeated delays due to the construction handover procedure between the Department of Surface Transport and Project DANTAK, the COVID-19 pandemic, contractor related issue and frequent disruptions caused by the monsoon.
Despite the numerous challenges, progress is now visible on the ground. Over 23 kilometres of the 58 kilometers of the highway have now been blacktopped. And this has already benefited the villagers of Jangsa, Langchenphu and Rongchuthang villages.
Currently, most residents travel through the Indian highway to reach Jomotshangkha Dungkhag.
Mon Bahadur Thapa, a resident said “The road has benefited us. Now it is easier to travel, even when someone is sick. Earlier, the road was dusty, and it affected our crops, but now with the blacktopping, dust is no longer a problem, we are hopeful that the work will be completed soon.”
Bishnu Bhakta Adhikari, another resident said “Traveling within our country is generally safe, so this highway is important for us. Except for the occasional presence of elephants, using this route is not risky.”
Likewise, Rup Dosh Subba said “Now there is no more dust, and the road feels smooth and peaceful, earlier it was rough and difficult. This highway is very important for us because travelling through India can be risky. With this road, we can travel safely within our own country.”
Meanwhile, Leki said “Earlier, the road was in poor condition, but now it has been blacktopped, and there is no more dust. All the villagers are happy with the development.”
A Project DANTAK official said that if the work is not hampered by heavy monsoon, they aim to complete the blacktopping and the construction of most of the bridges by the end of this year.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Kipchu
