DAWA ZANGMO | Thimphu
Concerns over the worsening condition of the Nganglam–Panbang Primary National Highway (PNH) during the ongoing in Parliament widening and resurfacing works have been formally conveyed to Project DANTAK, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MoIT).
The improvement project along the Nganglam–Panbang highway, regarded as a major infrastructure initiative for the region, is currently being implemented by Project DANTAK and is scheduled for completion by March 2028.
Under the arrangement, Project DANTAK has been assigned responsibility not only for carrying out the widening and resurfacing works but also for ensuring routine maintenance of the highway throughout the construction period.
This includes activities such as clearing roadside vegetation, cleaning drainage systems, repairing potholes, and maintaining safe road conditions for commuters.
The issue was raised during the National Assembly’s on 14 May session by Nganglam MP, Lamdra Wangdi, who sought a written clarification from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MoiT) regarding the condition of the road and the status of maintenance activities.
While acknowledging the government’s decision to undertake the highway improvement project, the MP said the people welcomed the initiative and looked forward to the long-term benefits expected from the widening and resurfacing works.
However, he stated that routine maintenance along several sections of the highway appeared insufficient.
According to the MP, bush clearing and drain cleaning works had not been adequately carried out in many stretches, while several parts of the highway had developed potholes and damaged surfaces that posed risks to both commuters and vehicles.
He further noted that the deteriorating condition of the road had increased safety concerns among residents and regular road users, with fears that accidents could occur if maintenance works were not carried out promptly.
The MP also stated that although the matter had earlier been formally communicated to the ministry, no response had reportedly been received before the issue was raised in Parliament.
In its written response, the MoIT acknowledged the inconvenience caused to commuters and recognized the safety concerns arising from the deteriorating sections of the highway.
The MoIT stated that it had officially communicated the matter to Project DANTAK and requested the agency to immediately undertake necessary maintenance works along the 0 to 55 kilometer stretch of the Nganglam–Panbang corridor.
According to the ministry, the maintenance measures are aimed at improving road safety, restoring basic driving conditions, and ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for highway users during the construction phase.
The MoIT further stated that it would continue close coordination with Project DANTAK and maintain regular follow-up mechanisms to ensure that maintenance activities are carried out in a timely manner while the broader highway improvement works continue.
Public concern over the road condition has also continued to grow, with some commuters expressing concerns over perceived delays in maintenance activities and administrative response from relevant authorities.
However, the ministry reiterated its commitment to strengthening coordination with implementing agencies and improving road conditions while the upgrading works remain underway.
The Nganglam–Panbang highway improvement project was officially handed over to 63 RCC, based in Samdrup Jongkhar, on 9 May 2025 for implementation.
The project is being executed with an allocation of Nu 737.780 million under the 13th Five-Year Plan and is considered one of the major road infrastructure developments aimed at improving regional connectivity.
According to the ministry, the project had achieved a physical progress of 1.95 percent and financial progress of 1.30 percent as of March 2026, indicating that implementation remains in its early stages.
Despite the slow initial progress, the project is expected to bring long-term benefits once completed. Authorities say the upgraded highway will improve road safety, reduce travel time, and strengthen connectivity between the eastern and southern regions of the country.
The Nganglam–Panbang highway serves as an important transport corridor for residents, businesses, and travellers in the region.
Road users have continued to stress the importance of maintaining safe and passable conditions during the construction phase, particularly in stretches affected by potholes, damaged surfaces, and drainage issues.
With completion targeted for March 2028, the highway project remains a key component of the government’s broader infrastructure development plans.
At the same time, concerns over commuter safety and timely maintenance during the ongoing construction period continue to be highlighted by stakeholders and road users alike.
The MoIT stated that coordination and monitoring efforts would continue to ensure that necessary maintenance works are undertaken alongside the wider road improvement activities until the project is fully completed.
