Phuentshogling Thromde is upgrading its footpaths to make the town more inclusive and easier to move around for everyone, including persons living with disabilities. The new infrastructure is designed to improve safety, comfort and accessibility in public spaces.
Along several footpaths in the town, yellow tiles have been laid in a continuous line. At first glance, they may look like simple paving. But for persons with disabilities, especially those who are visually impaired, they are an essential guide. These are called tactile tiles. They have raised patterns that help people find their way.
Straight lines show the direction to walk, while dotted patterns warn of stopping points such as road crossings.
According to thromde officials, such features help users navigate safely by detecting changes on the ground using their feet or a walking cane.
The new footpaths are built with smooth, firm and slip-resistant surfaces. They also include gentle gradients and lowered edges at crossings to improve accessibility.
“The old footpaths were not friendly for people living with disabilities. We often talk about inclusiveness, but it must be reflected in our infrastructure. A simple footpath like this benefits not only persons with disabilities but also our elderly citizens,” said Uttar Kumar Rai, Phuentshogling Thrompon, Chhukha.
Phuentshogling thromde is rolling out footpath construction in phases. In its first phase and second phases, construction is currently underway in the upper town and core town areas.
However, some residents have raised concerns over construction materials left along certain stretches, saying it’s affecting traffic flow and creating safety risks.
Acknowledging the inconvenience, Thromde officials said such disruptions are temporary and part of ongoing development works. They added that efforts are being made to clear materials from completed areas as work progresses.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
Edited by Sonam Pem
