DAWA ZANGMO | Thimphu
Improved road connectivity is expected to enhance local livelihoods and ease the transportation of agricultural produce in the two chiwogs of Pemathang Gewog under Samdrup Jongkhar Dzongkhag.
The road project, which connects Raling and Uesarna-Warong chiwogs, is expected to benefit more than 250 households once completed.
Residents say the new concrete surface will replace the existing dusty and muddy track that has long posed challenges, particularly during the monsoon season.
Construction work is progressing steadily, with one kilometer of the planned five-kilometers road already laid with a sub-base course.
Drainage works along the completed stretch are nearing completion, according to local officials. The remaining sections are expected to be completed within the coming weeks.
The road is anticipated to significantly improve the transportation of farm produce, including ginger, paddy, areca nut, and vegetables, which are cultivated for both household consumption and commercial sale.
Villagers say poor road conditions in the past often disrupted travel and limited their ability to access markets reliably.
Karma Tsheltrim, a resident of the area, said the new road would address longstanding travel difficulties.
“During the summer months, the road would frequently deteriorate due to rainfall. With the concrete base now in place, I believe travel will become much more convenient,” he said.
Another resident, Muku, highlighted the daily challenges caused by the existing road condition.
“At present, the road is dusty, and during summer it becomes muddy. Once the road is completed, transporting goods and materials between the town and the villages will be much easier,” she said.
Similar views were shared by Tshering Pema, who recalled the poor condition of the road during the rainy season.
“In the summer, the road used to be in very bad shape. Now that a concrete base has been laid, it will be more convenient for us to travel,” she said.
Pema Zangmo also pointed out that frequent damage caused by rain had made maintenance ineffective in the past.
“Earlier, the road was rough, and even after repairs, rainfall would wash it away. With proper drainage and a concrete base, it will be more helpful for the community,” she said.
According to the Pemathang Gup, Pema Lekso, the project is on track for completion by next month. He said the concrete farm road is designed to provide permanent, all-weather access for farmers in both Raling and Uesarna-Warong chiwogs.
The Gup said that the completed concrete farm road will ensure year-round connectivity for farmers. “It will allow for regular and timely transportation of agricultural produce to markets, collection points, and gewog centres.”
He added that improved access is expected to reduce transportation difficulties and associated costs for farmers.
“Lower transportation costs will help increase farm-gate prices and contribute to higher household incomes,” he said.
The Gup noted that the road supports the broader goal of agricultural commercialization and is expected to deliver long-term economic benefits to beneficiary households.
“By improving access, the road will encourage farmers to market their produce more efficiently and consistently,” he said.
The farm road is being constructed with cement concrete pavement to ensure durability and long service life.
According to the gewog administration, the design is intended to withstand monsoon conditions, which have historically caused severe damage to earthen and gravel roads in the area.
Adequate drainage structures, including side drains and cross drains, have been incorporated to manage surface runoff and prevent erosion. Proper camber and alignment have also been provided to ensure smooth discharge of rainwater during heavy rainfall, reducing the risk of road damage.
The gewog administration will oversee routine maintenance of the road after completion, with support from the local community, the gup said.
“Community participation in maintenance will help ensure the long-term sustainability of the road,” he added.
Residents say reliable road access will improve not only agricultural transportation but also daily mobility, including access to essential services and markets.
Farmers are hopeful that improved connectivity will allow them to transport produce more efficiently and reduce post-harvest losses caused by delays and poor road conditions.
Once completed, the concrete farm road is expected to provide lasting benefits for the two chiwogs by improving accessibility and strengthening rural livelihoods.
The project represents a significant infrastructure development for the area, aimed at supporting farmers and enhancing economic opportunities through improved transportation throughout the year.
