Potholes and poor drainage system in most parts of the Olakha and Babesa roads have turned into an eyesore to the residents and road users, but according to Thimphu thromde, bad roads and poor drainage is the result of lack of civic sense and unethical behaviour of the people.
However, the thromde said the maintenance of the roads will be carried out as soon as the 12th Five Year Plan budget is received.
For now, these roads in the thromde turn into dirty ponds during monsoon due to numerous potholes and rough surface areas. Vehicles plying the roads find it difficult and harsh. Many residents complained that car parts get damaged and commuters complain that such road conditions even make accidents prone.
“I have been driving taxi since 2013 and this road has been filled with potholes ever since. Just like in the past, the road condition is still the same. The road is risky because it may cause accidents. When we try to avoid potholes and drive from the wrong side, accidents are highly likely. Especially when we are in a hurry taking passengers with kids and the elderly, a lot of problems occur,” Sumgyel, a taxi driver, said.
“When we look at it, the road condition is very poor. It is very inconvenient especially while giving side to oncoming vehicles. Many passengers I came across complain regarding the bad road and questions when will thromde repair the road,” Tshering Tenzin, also a taxi driver added.
The Olakha and Babesa roads are constructed with support from the Asian Development Bank. The budget from the 12th Five Year Plan to maintain the roads is yet to reach the thromde office. According to the thromde, people carelessly damage the roads during construction and leave water pipes open along the roads while collecting water.
“This situation is all thanks to the public. When we construct a proper drainage system, they install pipes inside the drains for their convenience. When they construct houses, they dump everything along the roads and drains carelessly. They openly let water flow along the roads. If they have the benefit, they don’t mind about society. That is why the roads are damaged. We don’t have the budget to repair it. We are waiting for the 12th Five Year Plan budget. After the budget is released, we will do the maintenance of the roads,” Kinlay Dorjee, the Thrompon said.
As for now, the thromde collects Nu 50,000 as a security deposit from those constructing houses to prevent house owners from damaging the surrounding roads. Thromde also imposes fines based on the damage done to the roads and drainage systems. Until the budget is released, people will have to wait to comfortably ply around.
