As Gelephu Mindfulness City continues to take shape, attention is turning to the roads that will keep the city moving. A new East-West Highway is set to improve access to the airport while linking key highways and future development zones across Gelephu.
From above, the scale of Gelephu’s transformation is becoming visible. The new international airport is taking shape, bringing with it expectations of increased movement, more visitors and greater economic activity. But an airport alone cannot move a growing city.
It needs a road network that can connect people, businesses and future developments.
Today, the road connecting the airport and Gelephu town continues to serve commuters and residents. But with more development coming to the city, authorities are preparing for the traffic of tomorrow.
The Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority is planning a new East-West Highway, a nearly nine-kilometre corridor that will run north of the airport. It will connect the Gelephu–Tareythang Highway in the east with the old Sarpang Highway in the west, creating a key link for the growing city.
“The construction of new roads is a positive development and comes at the right time. With GMC growing and more vehicles expected on the roads, improved connectivity will benefit everyone,” said Sangay Wangdi, a resident.
Another resident, Wangdi said, “The existing road from the airport to town is not in poor condition, but it is narrow and has limited space. Wider roads will make travel safer, reduce the risk of accidents, and provide smoother movement for everyone.”
As per GMCA, the planned highway will include two major bridges over the Paitha and Big Aie Poly rivers, four smaller bridges, drainage structures, and underground utility ducts for future services. To speed up construction, the project has been divided into two packages.
Each package is expected to be completed within 16 months after construction begins, covering everything from site preparation and earthworks to bridge works, road construction, testing, and commissioning.
For now, the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority has already invited expressions of interest from eligible contractors for both construction packages.
Once complete, the East-West Highway is expected to become a major transport link, connecting the airport, highways, and future development areas while supporting the long-term growth of Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Passang Dorji/Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
Edited by Phub Gyem
