The long-awaited road improvement work along the Wolakha-Talo road in Punakha is finally underway. It has already started benefiting road users, even before its completion. For years, the road remained narrow and in poor condition.
The road improvement project, spanning over 19 kilometres is scheduled to be completed in 15 months, which is October next year.
The work includes widening, blacktopping, construction of side drains, and retaining walls.
The project is funded by the Government of India spending over 141 million ngultrum, with the Department of Surface Transport implementing it.
Residents say the improved road will help boost their economic activities.
Tsagay, a resident said, “Since I have a shop by the roadside, this road has become helpful for us. We no longer have to pay extra fare, and can reach our destination faster.”
Guti, another resident said, “The situation has improved. Now, there is no problem even if four or five vehicles drive on the road at the same time. Earlier, one vehicle had to wait to give way to the other. Now, travelling to Punakha is convenient as an hour’s journey now takes only about half an hour.”
Tashi Rinzin, a taxi driver said, “The road has already started benefiting us. Earlier, it was filled with potholes. I am sure it will bring even more benefits after it is blacktopped. We are all happy. All the potholes have now been filled. Previously, our vehicle used to get damaged but now we don’t have that worry anymore.”
Talo Gup Rinzin Wangchuk said, “Some maintenance works are underway at Nalendra Shedra. Similarly, both the temples in Nobgang are undergoing major renovations. Therefore, this road has become extremely important for us. Moreover, the people from five chiwogs in Talo Gewog have repeatedly raised their concerns and proposed the gewog office to widen this road.”
He added that the road will be beneficial during the renovation of Talo Monastery when the planned renovation starts.
With the road improvement work progressing steadily, residents of Talo Gewog are hopeful that better connectivity will bring greater economic opportunities and ease their daily lives.
Changa Dorji, Punakha
Edited by Tshering Zam
