The bypass under construction above Phuentshogling has become a recurring source of disruption for commuters. Whenever rainfall occurs, landslides and falling debris frequently block sections of the Phuentshogling-Thimphu Highway. Responding to concerns raised by a Member of Parliament during the recent National Assembly session, the Infrastructure and Transport Minister said the government will continue to closely monitor the situation and implement measures to minimise disruptions and prevent frequent road blockages.
Residents of Phuentshogling and nearby areas continue to face problems due to the ongoing bypass construction.
During the rainy season, heavy rainfall often triggers landslides and falling debris, making roads unsafe and causing frequent traffic disruptions. Just two weeks ago, continuous rain sent mud, rocks and water flowing from the upper slopes onto the Phuentshogling–Thimphu Highway. Vehicles were stranded for more than an hour as debris continued to fall onto the road.
Dust from the construction site spreads across parts of the town. The dust affects air quality and causes inconvenience to residents, businesses and commuters.
Phuentshogling’s Member of Parliament raised concerns about the quality and durability of infrastructure projects at the recent Question Hour session in the National Assembly. He questioned whether contractors were properly following contractual requirements, noting that large amounts of debris from the bypass construction above the highway continue to wash onto the road during rainfall.
“The residents have offices in town, and the schools are also in town. When it rains, people are worried about how to send their children to school. And getting back home in the evening if it rains is also a concern. Moreover, it is a highway between Phuentshogling and Thimphu. The bypass has highway and town below, so where did it go wrong?” said Rinzin Dorji, Phuentshogling MP, Chhukha, NA.
Infrastructure and Transport Minister Chandra Bdr Gurung said the ministry had investigated the matter and found that the contractor had carried out the works in accordance with contractual requirements.
“The contractor has been carrying out the work in accordance with the contract terms. Several retaining walls are yet to be constructed, and the contractor had planned to begin the wall works around April. However, the monsoon arrived earlier than expected. The heavy, early, and unpredictable rainfall contributed to the disaster. We understand the concerns of the residents of Phuentshogling. Moving forward, we have necessary measures in place and assure the public that every effort will be made to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.”
The minister also stressed the importance of the bypass project.
He said the existing Integrated Check Post faces risks from an active landslide below the facility. Given the strategic importance of the Phuentshogling–Thimphu Highway, he said the country needs an alternative route to maintain connectivity during emergencies.
As the monsoon intensifies, concerns remain over repeated disruptions along the Phuentshogling–Thimphu Highway. Residents continue to call for long-term preventive measures to reduce risks and prevent frequent disruptions at the same location.
Kinley Dem
