Residents of Phuentshogling Gewog’s Deling-Marpji Chiwog in Chhukha can finally breathe a sigh of relief after authorities completed a temporary alternate route. More than 120 households had remained cut off for over a month due to an active landslide along the old road.
The landslide, which began about a month ago, remains active, with boulders and stones continuing to fall, making road clearance impossible.
Without an alternate route, residents faced shortages of essential supplies.
The landslide also disrupted the timely transport of oranges and ginger to the market. Farmers struggled to move animal feed, while at least 11 vehicles remained stranded, depriving many families of their primary source of income.
Authorities have now opened a temporary route connecting the area to the Lokchina Gewog Centre road, restoring access to the community.
Phuentshogling Gup Birkha Bdr Rai said, “We tried to clear the old road, but it was impossible. However, we have now been able to open an alternative route. It has been over a month. This will really help people, especially at this time, when people have to take their oranges and ginger to the market.”
Deling-Marpji Tshogpa Purna BdrGhalay said, “The past one month has been difficult, firstly during medical emergencies. Secondly, it has been challenging to take farm produce to market. It has really affected the livelihood and income of our people. They had to carry loads and walk for hours to reach the road point.”
“Getting rations and taking produce to the market was a challenge. With the alternate route now open, things will be much easier for us,” said Nethra Singh Ghalley, a resident.
Meanwhile, dungkhag officials say they will deploy excavators to assess possible clearance options and implement measures to mitigate the landslide.