YK Poudel

Residents along the Haa-Samtse Secondary National Highway (SNH) are calling for long-term road improvements as frequent landslides near Amochhu Bridge continue to disrupt access, particularly during the monsoon season.

These recurring closures leave Sombaykha Dungkhag in Haa frequently disconnected.

The 77-kilometre (km) stretch from Jyenkana to Putsena on the Haa-Samtse SNH, under the jurisdiction of the Department of Surface Transport’s (DoST) Regional Office in Thimphu, has faced recurrent road blocks during monsoons, particularly near Amochhu Bridge.

Although residents have long requested a stable and blacktopped road, funds allocated for this financial year are limited to conducting a Detailed Project Report (DPR) from Latsona to Putsena. The DPR is nearing completion.

Work on upgrading the Haa-Samtse SNH began in 2015, with the Jyenkana-Sombaykha Dungkhag section blacktopped by 2019.

However, other unstable stretches are still unpaved, affecting connectivity and posing risks for travellers.

Chief Engineer Chador Gyeltshen of Thimphu Division said that the proposed realignment from Yangtsina junction near Amochhu Bridge and improvements along Latsona to Putsena has been included in the 13th Plan, contingent upon funding availability.

Since the highway’s extension to Sombaykha Dungkhag, residents have seen significant changes, including the growth of new businesses, improved amenities, and increased tourism—especially at Rangtse Nye, which attracts thousands of visitors annually.

“The 38.5-km improvement from Latsona to Putsena is estimated to cost Nu 471.98 million and is slated for completion within the 13th Plan, once funding is secured,” Chador Gyeltshen said.

During his recent visit, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, who represents Sombaykha Constituency, assured his constituents that the government will prioritise road connectivity for the gewogs of Samar, Gakiling, and Sombay.

He also promised to expedite road widening projects for both Haa-Samtse and Damchu-Haa Highways, which would transform Haa into a vibrant tourism destination, benefitting local residents.

The Amochhu Bridge, constructed in 2017, is a crucial link for the Gakiling and Sangbaykha gewogs, which rely on reliable road access to sustain their communities and boost local economic development.