His Holiness the Je Khenpo inaugurated a Network Arch Bridge in Samdrup Jongkhar on Monday.The bridge, built over Dungsamchhu, connects the Thromde to the Samdrup Jongkhar-Trashigang highway.
It was constructed at a cost of around Nu 80 M.
This bridge is said to be different from other bridges in the country. Officials say unlike other bridges that have archs made of metal, the arch in this bridge is made by concrete.
Therefore, officials say, it will not require much major maintenance.
The bridge also provides a shorter alternate route for travellers.
“With the old route, we had to travel almost 3 kilometres, but now the distance has been shortened. Also, the vehicles don’t have to enter the town, so it has helped the public with noise and dust problems,” Jigme, a Thromde Thuemi, said.
“Before we had to come through town and go back the same route. Now, we can travel without coming here,” Nidup Dorji, a local resident, said.
The Construction Development Corporation Limited (CDCL) built the bridge. It was completed in 24 months.
The 55-metre long bridge has a carrying capacity of 70 metric tons.
