The daily commute for residents of Chhoekhorling and Doloonggang villages in Dekiling Gewog is no longer defined by dust in winter and muddy roads during the monsoon. A newly improved road is now making travel easier while also boosting local businesses along the route.
For close to 30 shopkeepers along the road, the biggest change of the past year has not happened inside their shops, but on the road outside them.
“The difference is remarkable. Earlier, the road was dusty during the dry season and challenging to use. Now, people can commute comfortably, and using the road feels much safer,” said Deo Narayan Acharya, Shopkeeper, Chhoekhorling, Dekiling, Sarpang.
“In the past, heavy rain would send water flowing straight into our shops because there were no proper drains. During winter, dust covered everything. Since the road was upgraded with drainage, those problems have reduced significantly, creating a better environment for both shopkeepers and customers,” said Bhim Bahadur Limbu, Shopkeeper, Chhoekhorling, Dekiling, Sarpang.
Beyond the shopfronts, the 3.2-kilometre stretch provides a smoother and safer journey for more than 150 residents.
Proper drainage has been built along the road’s most vulnerable sections, helping reduce waterlogging and monsoon-related disruptions.
The stretch was improved at a cost of Nu 16 M. The road is also the main access route to Chhudzom Gewog, making it an important link for commuters and transporters in the region.
However, the blacktop stops near the Jigme Wangchuck Power Training Institute in Doloongang.
“The blacktopped section has made travel easier, and even small cars can now reach Doloongang. But beyond this point, the road is still rough. Smaller vehicles struggle, and only high-clearance vehicles can travel safely,” said Lok Bahadur Rai, Taxi Driver, Dekiling, Sarpang.
While residents acknowledge the better road and its benefits, for them, the next milestone is seeing a smoother and wider road towards Chhudzom Gewog.
Passang Dorji/Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
