Poor road conditions along the Punakha–Gasa Secondary National Highway have long been an issue for commuters. Several stretches of the road remain in dire need of maintenance. Due to budget constraints, only certain portions of the road have been maintained so far. However, if everything goes as planned, things could improve by next year. Plans are underway to blacktop over 10 kilometres of the road, with works expected to commence soon.
The road condition is particularly poor between Tarshithang and Phuntshogang in Khamaed Gewog in Gasa.
Many stretches of the road are bumpy, with blacktop worn out.
The problem worsens during monsoon as landslides and flash floods further damage the road.
Last year, Gasa experienced multiple roadblocks along the highway due to such incidents. Although concerned authorities managed to restore traffic without much delay, the condition of the road in these areas has not improved.
Locals and travelers have requested the government to blacktop the highway. Road users also say the entire stretch of the road needs to be widened, as there is a high risk of collision and accident due to the narrow road, especially along cliff areas.
Gyembo, a taxi driver said, “The road is not in good condition even after crossing Damji. It was better before, but last summer’s floods damaged it badly. It is very difficult for small vehicles to drive on this road, only bolero pick-up trucks can manage.”
Tshering, a resident of Khailo-Tarshithang in Khamaed Gewog, Gasa said, “The road is narrow and has been blacktopped once during each government’s tenure but the quality is poor. The thin layer of bitumen wears out within five years. We would be grateful if the road is widened and properly blacktopped to avoid accidents.”
Kinley Dorji from Barsha-Panikong in Khamaed Gewog, Gasa said, “As my vehicle is small, it affects badly while traveling to Phuntshogang. Vehicle parts get damaged. Likewise, it is difficult to give way to oncoming traffic.”
Relief, however, may be in sight.
The Department of Surface Transport’s Regional Office in Lobesa has already awarded the road improvement works to a private construction company. Around thirteen kilometers of the road, including a section at the Tarshithang area will be blacktopped and the road width will also be increased along critical sections.
The government has allocated over Nu 115 M for the project. The fifteen-month project is expected to be completed by April next year.
Changa Dorji, Gasa
