The recent collapse of the bridge at Kuri Gongri along the Nganglam-Gyalpozhing highway has sparked worries among business owners along the route. This vital highway is not only used by travellers and transporters but has more than ten shops between Telung and Tshobalay. However, with the collapse of the bridge, hoteliers and shopkeepers are concerned about the future of their business.
The Nganglam-Gyalpozhing highway serves as a crucial lifeline for the local business community, attracting customers, both travellers and truckers. But the recent bridge collapse has brought business activities to a halt.
Without a functional bridge, the usual flow of travellers has ceased, leaving shopkeepers with no customers.
“We do not have enough people here. Our business depends on travellers. As the highway is closed to traffic, we do not have customers. It is hot here, so edible items might get spoiled,” said Sonam Tshomo, a shopkeeper.
“We do not have a school or a BHU nearby. Our customers are truckers only. We are facing a problem now. If the bridge is not reconstructed at the earliest, I am thinking of moving to another place,” said Wangda, another shopkeeper.
They added that all they can hope for now is the construction of a new bridge connecting the highway.
During the recent meet the press session, the infrastructure and transport minister said a decision will soon be taken on whether to construct a bailey bridge or a modular bridge over the river.
“The one way forward is we will be going ahead with the same bailey bridge with a new set. Our old set is finished now. And another one is a modular bridge. It is a new design bridge. So, we have not yet decided. Whatsoever, the construction will be carried out very soon.”
The reconstructed bailey bridge collapsed on Tuesday. A couple who was travelling in a ten-wheeler dumper truck ferrying bricks to Gyalpozhing is still missing after the bridge collapsed.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Tshering Zam
