Residents of Jarogang village in Athang Gewog, Wangdue Phodrang, are raising serious concerns about the safety of travellers using their farm road. Locals say years of neglect have left the road riddled with potholes. Running along cliffs and rugged terrain, the deteriorating condition poses a high risk of accidents.
Although the farm road stretches just over two kilometres, it serves as the only access route for more than 13 households in Jarogang–Dzawo Chiwog and Dzomba village. The road is also used by visitors travelling to Jarogang Lhakhang.
Constructed in 2012, the road is now badly damaged, with potholes and loose stones scattered along its entire length.
The narrow road runs along cliffs and rugged terrain, making travel risky even in dry conditions. During the monsoon, the situation worsens as rain makes the surface slippery and difficult to navigate.
Locals say they have repeatedly appealed to the relevant authorities to improve the road, but no concrete action has been taken so far.
Sherub Wangchuk, a resident of Jarogang-Dzawo said, “For us, this road is vital for development. However, its condition has deteriorated as the number of vehicles has increased. During the rainy season, vehicles cannot even climb certain sections. Drivers also avoid carrying heavy loads due to the risk of accidents, which creates further difficulties for us.”
Another resident Gyembo said, “The road becomes much more dangerous during summer. Driving along the edge risks falling down the slope, while driving uphill risks hitting rocks. Poor road conditions cause vehicle bushes to wear out quickly, and small vehicles often suffer damage. Last year, a vehicle nearly fell off the road. This road poses a serious risk to life.”
“During summer, we often have to abandon our vehicles along the roadside. The road is full of potholes and needs frequent clearing, about four to five times a year,” said Tashi Dorji, who frequently travels along the road.
The gewog administration says it has only been able to carry out minor repairs due to budget constraints, with locals taking on much of the maintenance work themselves.
Athang Gup Dawa Gyeltshen confirmed that blacktopping work will begin by February, as the tender evaluation process is currently underway. The project is expected to be completed within six months.
The gup said, “We will try to begin the road blacktopping work by mid-February, after completing the tender evaluation and contract award processes. For this project, around Nu 5.2 M has been allocated by the government with support from the Government of India.”
Once blacktopped, the road will provide commuters with a safer, smoother journey through the serene and scenic surroundings of Jarogang.
Changa Dorji, Wangdue Phodrang
Edited by Sangay Chezom
