The new Khuruthang bridge in Punakha is almost 90 per cent complete. It was initially planned to be ready by September but the deadline was extended due to numerous hindrances. The bridge is now expected to be completed by February next year.
So far, the construction of the foundation and abutments, river protection walls, and other structures has been completed.
The construction of the new bridge over the Punatsangchhu, near the existing Bailey bridge, began in early 2023 and is being carried out by a private contractor.
Currently, the construction work is focused on connecting the superstructure from both sides, and expected to be completed within one and a half months. Superstructure is the upper portion of the bridge above the beam seats where vehicles ply and pedestrians walk.
Officials say the remaining work, including the footpath, approach roads, side railings and installation of lights will be completed by February next year.
Choeda Jamtsho, the Project Manager from DoST, Regional Office Lobesa in Punakha said, “We have included beautification lighting. So, regarding the lighting of the bridge mainly for the beautification purpose, we have added fog lights and beam lights mainly to make it more aesthetic during the night time.”
According to the bridge construction project authority, the work was hindered due to traffic congestion and shifting of utility lines.
Choeda Jamtsho added that “The main reason behind the hindrance of this project is due to the delay in shifting of utility lines, example like electric lines, telecom lines and water service lines. Initially, at the beginning of this project, I mean the contractor even after they had started their work, the facilities, and these service lines it could not be shifted on time.”
The 100-metre-long concrete bridge has a carrying capacity of 70 tonnes with footpath on each side.
The current problem of traffic congestion on the existing single-lane Bailey bridge will be also resolved.
The new bridge will connect Khuruthang to the Bajo Secondary National Highway and nearby villages.
The bridge construction project is being carried out with a budget of Nu 230 Mfrom the Government of India.
Once complete, it is expected to be one of the exemplary modern motorable bridges in the district.
Changa Dorji, Punakha
Edited by Tshering Zam
