The construction of the Gewog Centre road towards Laya in Gasa has resumed. Although more than half of the stretch was completed a few years ago, work could not be continued due to budget constraints. Currently, the remaining part which is about six kilometres is under construction.
Today, road connectivity has reached till Tongshong Drak.
The 30-kilometre road from Gasa to Tongshong Drak was constructed about four years ago.
From here, people have to walk for at least four hours to reach Laya Gewog.
But this is expected to change in a few years’ time.
The construction of the Gewog Centre road from Tongshong Drak resumed in September. It will be cleared till Taktse Makhang which is more than six kilometres.
The road construction till Taktse Makhang will benefit us a lot. It will not only benefit us but it will also bring great relief for our animals. Moreover, our people will be able to increase the vegetable cultivation works. I think we will not have to struggle by collecting Cordyceps,” said Bagay Dorji, a resident.
“I feel it would bring great opportunities for the people. I feel that in future definitely, I would love to come here if the road is further developed. I feel that we can at least have a bit of walking distance but not too much so that we are able to experience the toughness too. But the distance being shorter would be much greater,” said Jigme Dechen, a visitor.
The Department of Surface Transport is carrying out the construction work and will be completed by February 2025.
The construction is being carried out at a cost of about Nu 65 M.
Once the road is constructed, it is expected to improve the livelihood of the people and thus help address the rural-urban migration.
There are more than 300 households in Laya Gewog.
Changa Dorji, Gasa
Edited by Tshering Zam