Lhakpa Quendren
Sarpang—The residents of Chhudzom gewog in Sarpang are calling for better road infrastructure, particularly in light of the upcoming Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project.
Currently, the 45-kilometre road from Dolongang in Dekiling to Chhudzom gewog centre is severely affected by land slides at multiple locations, with some sections of the road washed away last July. This poses potential risks to commuters.
Mangmi Prem Bahadur Ghalley said that a double-lane road is essential for Chhudzom residents to benefit economically from the GMC project. “We discussed this with our Member of Parliament during his recent visit. Otherwise, we could be stuck in this situation for another decade.”
The Mangmi said that once major infrastructure development begins in the GMC project, Chhudzom gewog would be able to attract visitors for eco-tourism and recreational activities.
Chhudzom gewog centre is hit by severe soil erosion, washing away parts of the road
The residents believe that the GMC project will bring essential resources to their community, ultimately transforming their economic landscape.
“This development will lead to major improvements in the infrastructure and the road network connecting us to the wider region,” said Prem Bahadur Ghalley.
This prospect has already spurred increased land investment in Chhudzom due to affordable prices and its proximity to the GMC.
Local residents speculate that some landowners in nearby Gelephu and Sarpang may receive land replacements if their properties are affected by the project.
Lhayul Tshogpa Narendra Ghimeray said that road improvements should be prioritised with the new emerging opportunities. “Improved road infrastructure is essential for better connectivity, access to services, and overall economic growth,” he said.
Currently, Chhudzom residents heavily rely on Gelephu for basic necessities but poor road conditions make commuting difficult.
The recent blacktopped road is already deteriorating due to the monsoon.
The blacktopping work was undertaken by Eight Builders and Tacho Constructions, while Norzang Construction is struggling to complete a few kilometres of work in Dolongang.
The contractors have a one-year liability period for maintenance.
The regional office of the Department of Surface Transport in Sarpang plans to clear the road after the monsoon.
The department also plans to blacktop the 5.5-kilometre secondary national highway from Chhoekhorling to the quarantine centre in Dekiling, which connects to the Chhudzom gewog centre road, and construct a bridge over the stream at Dolongang.
An official from the Sarpang regional office said that the tender for the blacktop will be floated soon to ensure the work is completed during the dry season. A budget of Nu 2.9 million has been allocated for this project.
Chhudzom gewog centre road is among 21 gewog centre roads scheduled for resurfacing, with work set to begin in December.
The Prime Minister’s Office will establish a special team to oversee the project and ensure quality standards are met.
However, the residents suggest expanding the road for sustainable use to avoid unnecessary expenses associated with any potential future expansion.
With most development activities in Chhudzom gewog moving slowly and some even failing to achieve their intended purpose, residents feel neglected. For example, the delayed construction of hostels for Jangchubling School, the abandoned irrigation project in Pelrigang Village, and the failed water schemes in Lhayul are a few instances.