𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐔𝐩𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧 𝐏𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐀 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

By Tashi Tshewang

On March 31, a significant milestone was achieved for the development of Pemagatshel as the Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, who also serves as the Minister In-charge of the Dzongkhag, inaugurated three key infrastructure projects during his two-day visit. These projects include the newly blacktopped Khothakpa-Khar road under Project Dantak, the commencement of construction on the Denchhi-Khar Dzongkhag Road, and the blacktopping of internal roads in Denchhi Throm, accompanied by upgraded drainage systems. The projects, funded by the Government of India, are expected to improve connectivity and bolster local infrastructure.

During the visit, the Minister engaged directly with residents of Denchhi town and the local business community to address their concerns and explore opportunities for further development. Additionally, he met with the Dzongkhag administration and Gewogs to review progress on the 13th Five-Year Plan, assess challenges, and strategize for future improvements. These efforts emphasize the government’s commitment to both infrastructure and community engagement, marking a significant step in Pemagatshel’s overall development.

Sonam Dendup, the Gup of Shumar Gewog, spoke on the benefits of the newly blacktopped road, emphasizing the importance of effective budget allocation and leadership awareness in driving development.

“With the road finally blacktopped, travel time on the previously bumpy roads will be significantly reduced. It used to take much longer to reach destinations, but now transportation will be smoother and more efficient. Another major relief is the reduction in dust pollution, which has been a long-standing issue for residents,” Sonam Dendup shared.
Although no public concerns were formally raised, the Gup highlighted that local government officials had addressed the issue of budget distribution. He urged the authorities to reconsider the budget allocation formula to ensure a fair and need-based distribution of funds for better development across regions.

“The blacktopping of this road is a huge relief for the 800 households in our community, as they no longer have to struggle with rough roads and high vehicle maintenance costs,” he added. “It is essential that the public can raise concerns directly with the ministry in a timely manner to ensure their voices are heard and necessary actions are taken to maintain and improve infrastructure.”

For the residents of Khothakpa, the newly blacktopped road has brought tangible improvements to daily life. Namgay Wangdi, a villager from Yalang, shared his relief: “Before, getting to the market was an ordeal. The roads were so bad that traveling to other places took a long time. Now, with the blacktopping, it’s much quicker and smoother, and I don’t have to worry about damaging my vehicle every time I drive.”

In addition to the smooth roads, the newly upgraded drainage system has also been praised. Namgay Wangdi continued, “During the rainy season, the roads would get flooded, and we often got stuck. Now, I am not worried about the rain causing any trouble. It’s a huge improvement for everyone, especially for those of us who rely on the road every day.”

These infrastructure improvements are also expected to benefit local businesses. Namgay Wangdi expressed optimism about the potential for increased commerce: “Better roads mean people from other areas can visit us more easily. This could bring more customers to our shops and may even encourage new businesses to open.”

Bopo Drukpa, the Tshogpa of Khothakpa, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the road’s importance for the village’s economy: “The blacktopping of the road will help the villagers a lot, especially as the road was dusty and difficult to travel on. Now, transportation is much more comfortable, which will boost the local economy.”

Sangay Dendup, another villager from Khothakpa Yalang, expressed his satisfaction with the road improvements, stating, “Before, we didn’t have a proper road, and traveling was a real struggle. As someone who owns a vehicle, I have felt the frustration of driving on rough, uneven roads. Now, with the improved road, I feel relieved. I hope this will significantly reduce my vehicle maintenance costs.”

Jamtsho, a villager from Khothakpa, also shared his gratitude for the road upgrades, “We are really grateful to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock for this road improvement. It has made our lives much easier, especially when traveling during the dry season when the dust was overwhelming and in the monsoon when the path became slippery. The new road conditions have improved connectivity and have made accessing essential services, such as healthcare, much easier.”

Jamtsho also pointed out the need for further development in the village: “While we appreciate the improvements, we hope to see more development in our village, such as better access to water supply, improved market linkages, and additional support for local farmers. Continued development efforts will make life in our village even better.”

The inauguration of these infrastructure projects marks a crucial step toward improving the quality of life for residents in Pemagatshel. The blacktopping of roads, the upgraded drainage systems, and enhanced connectivity are expected to foster economic growth, improve daily life, and ensure greater accessibility for all. As the community continues to benefit from these developments, there is a shared hope for further improvements that will enhance the overall well-being of the area.