Dechencholing town in Thimphu finally has a flood-resistant bridge, two years after a devastating flood. The flood damaged homes, washed away roads, and left residents dreading every time the monsoon approached. Today, that wait is over.
The climate-resilient four-lane bridge, spanning 10 metres in length and 17 metres in width, is designed to withstand floods. It was completed in six months at a cost of Nu 25 M.
This new bridge is designed and executed to withstand climate-related events with special attention to floods. In addition to the bridge, Thimphu Thromde is also working on the infrastructure development works within Dechencholing Satellite Town, which was badly affected during the flash flood that occurred in the year 2024,” said Pema Tashi, Project Engineer, Thimphu Thromde.
The major flood in August 2024 became a turning point for many households in the area, leaving homes damaged, with some washed away entirely. The hume pipes, which often caused overflows in the past, could not withstand heavy rainfall.
“In the past, we faced many challenges as the hume pipes often got blocked when rain carried stones and timber. Officials said the hume pipes were only a temporary measure after the flash flood, and that was indeed the case. Now, we are finally relieved to have a proper bridge. Even if it rains at night, we feel secure knowing there is a proper two-lane bridge for the water to flow beneath. We are grateful to the government,” said Wang Gyeltshen, a resident, Dechencholing, Thimphu.
“People living below the bridge, residents of Kabisa and Dangrina, along with commuters, are happy with the completion of the bridge. We are relieved that the difficulties are finally over. During construction, we had to take detours, which sometimes delayed students from reaching school on time. Now, all is well,” said Ugyen, Dechencholing_Taba Tshogpa, Thimphu Thromde.
The new bridge is now expected to improve daily connectivity, ease transportation, and provide residents with a greater sense of safety during the monsoon season.
Devika Pradhan
Edited by Sonam Pem
