Gasa has remained cut off from other districts since Monday after heavy rainfall triggered flash floods, washing away sections of the Punakha–Gasa highway at three locations. The Department of Surface Transport’s regional office in Punakha estimates it will take around two weeks to restore the road and reopen it to traffic.
On the night of 2nd June, Gasa District experienced heavy rainfall, triggering flash floods in several areas.
The floods washed away parts of the road at Geyza Chhura Lum, Domey Lum, and Tago Lum, all located between Damji and Tshachu Junction.
Although there are no reports of casualties or damage to property, the district remains completely isolated.
The Department of Surface Transport’s Regional Office in Lobesa plans to construct a temporary bypass, which is expected to take around two weeks to complete.
Local leaders have expressed concern over the situation.
Khamaed Gup Damcho Dorji said, “The public will certainly face a shortage of essential food items. Likewise, if an emergency patient needs to be transported, it will be extremely challenging. Even carrying them on foot would be very difficult due to the conditions. The overall situation here looks quite pathetic.”
The district administration, however, assures that there are sufficient stocks of essential items. An assessment of food supplies has already been carried out.
The office says that diesel supplies might run short if road access is not restored within a week.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid travelling along the Punakha–Gasa highway, as continuous rainfall has made the soil unstable, increasing the risk of further landslides.
Changa Dorji, Gasa
Edited by Sangay Chezom
