In parts of Trashi Yangtse, the journey still begins where the road ends. For many families, horses are more than transport. They are a lifeline and a source of income.
This is where the road ends for vehicles.
From here, people unload their goods and continue their journey on horseback. Those without horses either hire one or carry their loads on their backs.
In three chiwogs of Dhugti, Chhema–Melongkhar and Namthig–Yerphel Chiwog in Yalang Gewog, horses remain the main mode of transport. The chiwogs share a border with Tawang in India.
For many households, horses are also a source of income. People charge around Nu 1,000 per horse a day to transport goods.
But the journey is not easy. Some stretches are narrow and risky, both for people and animals.
“Whatever we do here depends on horses. Even for small loads, we have to use them as there is no road. Sometimes, we also use horses to carry people. Some people know how to do business, but I depend on horses to earn a small income,” said Nagpola, Chhema, Yalang, Trashi Yangtse.
Earlier, the narrow footpaths often damaged goods during transport.
“The path used to be narrow. Goods were often damaged, and sometimes horses would push each other off the cliff. Now the path has been widened, so it is safer. Horses can pass each other, and the journey takes less time,” said Jigme Dorji, Chhema, Yalang, Trashi Yangtse.
Now, change is underway. With support from the Economic Stimulus Programme, eco-trails are being developed across all three chiwogs. The project aims to make travel safer and more convenient for both people and animals.
About Nu 6 M has been allocated for eco-trails and basic amenities. More than 190 households are expected to benefit.
For these communities, better trails mean safer journeys and easier access to markets.
Sonam Darjay, Tashi Yangtse
Edited by Sonam Pem
