Frequent downpours in the past few days in Phuentshogling led to the swelling of the Bhawanijhora stream, turning it into a hazard for motorists and pedestrians alike. The monsoon has affected not only the ongoing construction of an underpass worth almost Nu 190 M in the area but also the livelihoods, with frequent roadblocks caused by the swollen stream.
The Bhawanijhora stream lies along the road connecting Phuentshogling town to the Pasakha Industrial Estate. The road serves residents of Samphelling Gewog and the industrial estate, and also links Phuentshogling to Lhamoidzingkha.
Heavy rain often led to roadblocks in the area. With the ongoing construction of an underpass and a culvert, water gushes over the structure. And when it rains, the swollen river with debris often disrupts the traffic. Although machines are deployed for timely clearing, people said the situation becomes risky, especially for school-going children. People are hoping for the works to complete soon as they continue to face the risks and inconveniences.
Arjun Chettri, a resident of Sonamthang in Samphelling Gewog, Chhukha said, “We have been facing lots of challenges from the stream at Bhawanijhora. There are frequent roadblocks in the area. An underpass bridge is being built and road blocks get cleared but it is affecting our daily lives. It is difficult for students who have to use this route and also challenging in times of emergency. We would like to request the relevant authorities to speed up the work.”
Kinley Dorji, a shopkeeper in Pasakha, Phuentshogling Thromde said, “It is challenging for every resident here in Pasakha. Our life becomes difficult every time it rains. As we travel, our vehicles often get stuck at Bhawanijhora and people have to come together to push them out. Our business is also affected.”
According to the Department of Surface Transport, continuous rainfall and seepage have made working conditions extremely challenging. The project had already been affected by last year’s prolonged monsoon that pushed back the construction.
Officials, however, said a revised work plan is now in place to ensure timely completion. More than 70 per cent of the work has been completed, and the project is expected to be completed by January next year.
Once complete, the underpass is expected to provide uninterrupted traffic flow, allowing vehicles to pass safely beneath while debris and floodwaters flow above the tunnel. Apart from improving safety for travellers, the new structure is also expected to cut maintenance costs significantly, requiring far less dredging compared to the old multicellular culvert bridge, which frequently gets buried during heavy rains.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
Edited by Kipchu
