𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐰𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐞𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫

…𝑩𝒖𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝑬𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝑺𝒖𝒓𝒈𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝑵𝒖 1.2 𝑩𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒐𝒏

By Yeshey Lhadon

The government has identified 21 critical Dzongkhag roads for improvement and will begin resurfacing 21 Gewog Connectivity (GC) roads starting this December. These efforts come as part of a broader strategy to improve road conditions across Bhutan, with a total estimated budget expected to rise from Nu 867 million to Nu 1.2 billion by the end of the fiscal year.

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MoIT) has already allocated the necessary budgets to regional offices, with the procurement process currently underway. “We expect the physical work on the identified Dzongkhag roads to begin by December 2024. The work will include geometry improvements, drainage, permanent works, and pavement improvements,” said Lyonpo Chandra Bdr. Gurung, the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport. He added that the government plans to resurface all GC roads over the next five years, with Nu 1.2 billion set aside for the current fiscal year’s GC road projects.

Among the highest-budgeted projects are the Dorona road in Dagana, which has been allocated Nu 152.04 million, and the Rangjung-Phongmey road in Trashigang, receiving Nu 117.11 million. Other notable projects include the Martshala road at Nu 59.82 million and the Shionbgkhar road in Zhemgang at Nu 111.23 million.

The full list of road improvement projects also includes the Limbukha road in Punakha (Nu 27.28 million), the Laya road in Gasa (Nu 40.91 million), and the Dangchu road in Wangdue Phodrang (Nu 49.1 million). These are key arteries that will support local and regional connectivity. In Bumthang, the Tang road is set to undergo significant improvements with Nu 38.96 million in funding, while the Norgaygang road in Samtse will see upgrades worth Nu 76.92 million.

Other important projects across the country include the Doongna road in Chhukha, which has been allocated Nu 84.21 million, the Naro road in Thimphu (Nu 75 million), and the Singye road in Sarpang, set to receive Nu 29.8 million. Additionally, the Chongshing road in Pemagatshel will benefit from an investment of Nu 105.96 million. In Tsirang, the Tsirangtoe road has been earmarked for Nu 65.54 million in improvements, further emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure nationwide.

Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay also addressed the issue of road quality, particularly regarding GC roads, many of which are already developing potholes. Reflecting on his term, he said, “During my term, I strictly monitored the construction of the East-West Highway, and the condition of that road remains good. However, the fact that many GC roads are developing holes shows that the construction quality was not up to the mark. This time, we are aiming for quality construction, and I have requested contractors to ensure that they do a good job.” The Prime Minister emphasized that the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) will closely monitor the resurfacing of GC roads to guarantee the work meets the necessary standards.

The inclusion of Chundzom road, which connects Chokhorling to the Technical Training Institute in Sarpang, was also highlighted by the MoIT. Lyonpo Chandra Bdr. Gurung stated that this road was added to the list of improvements due to its poor condition and frequent use by VVIPs and Green Mountain Cooperative (GMC) members. “Chundzom road is a priority for us, as it is in a critical condition and is frequently used by important members of the community,” he added.

With a focus on quality and long-term sustainability, the government aims to ensure that these road improvements are done to a high standard. Lyonpo Chandra Bdr. Gurung reiterated the importance of these projects for improving connectivity across the country. “We are committed to ensuring that the roads, whether Dzongkhag or GC, are built to last, providing safe and reliable access for all citizens,” he said.

Looking ahead, the Department of Surface Transport plans to assess the remaining Dzongkhag roads for potential improvements in the upcoming fiscal year, in close consultation with local governments. With the current initiatives and a robust monitoring framework, Bhutan’s road infrastructure is set for significant upgrades that will benefit communities across the country.