After years of waiting and several deadline extensions, the farm road connecting Khangma Phokchiri to Chhimung Awashing in Pema Gatshel is finally complete. Despite the multiple setbacks, the road now brings renewed hope and connectivity to Chhimung Gewog.
The road construction began in 2021. However, works got delayed particularly for stretch spanning more than three-kilometre that cut across continuous steep cliffs.
The construction firm struggled with frequent machinery breakdowns and severe difficulty hiring labourers willing to work in such an environment.
Despite the odds and bearing substantial losses, the construction firm pushed through.
Today, the farmers and local leaders acknowledge their hard work and dedication.
Tshering Wangzom, a resident said, “We were eagerly waiting for the road construction to complete. We are satisfied when we visited the site during the handover event. We are glad to take over this road today.”
Thinley Jamtsho, Chhimung Mangmi said, “Due to the challenging terrain, it took a long time to complete the construction. However, today, district and gewog administrations could celebrate the success. So, I would like to say I am happy and overwhelmed today.”
Until now, farmers relied on an alternative route to travel to the Dzong and town, which took a long time.
The new road has significantly reduced travel time.
As villagers begin to use the road, it is expected to uplift livelihoods and help drive socio-economic development in one of the remote parts of Pema Gatshel.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Tshering Zam
