The recently blacktopped farm road has brought changes to the lives of Tenzinwama and Satsaloo residents of Norbugang Gewog in Pema Gatshel. It has made it easier for them to construct new houses, grow orchards, and engage in other agricultural activities because of improved access to markets. Being among the first villages in the district with a blacktopped farm road, residents are excited.
The blacktopping works on the eight-kilometre farm road that started in March last year were completed ahead of schedule. Initially set for completion in July this year, it was completed last month. The newly blacktopped road has brought joy and optimism to villagers.
They are happy that the blacktopping work was completed before the rainy season, ensuring quality without delays.
“We are really impressed with the contractor who paved the road. They finished the work before the rainy season which is a relief. Also, the material used for the base course was excellent, better than what we have seen before. They sourced it from elsewhere and made sure it was of good quality. The road used to look quite worn out but now it has improved. We are happy with how it turned out,” said Zangpo, a resident of Satsaloo.
“We are happy the work was completed quickly and we think the quality is excellent. We have never seen blacktopping done before, so it’s all new to us,” said Tashi Namgay, another resident of Satsaloo.
“We now have a high-quality farm road in our village. It’s a big step for development and we are looking forward to seeing more progress in the future,” said Jigme Dorji, a resident of Tenzinwama.
The residents said that the facility would now improve their travel experience, adding that they had a difficult time when the road wasn’t blacktopped.
“Road is crucial for development. Once it is constructed, we can make progress in building houses, farming and raising livestock,” added Tashi Namgay.
“Before, we had to carry things on our backs because the roads were bad and vehicles couldn’t always get through. But now, we can easily transport our things faster. It has made life a lot easier,” added Jigme Dorji.
“The land prices were increasing already after we had the road. Now, with the road quality improved making the village more accessible, we expect the land price to increase more,” added Zangpo.
The blacktopped farm road will benefit over 50 households. More than Nu 64 M was spent to blacktop the farm road.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sonam Pem
