A newly blacktopped road has eased travel for residents of Martshala in Samdrup Jongkhar. But the relief is only partial. With six kilometres still rough, villagers are urging authorities to finish what has begun.
From Samdrup Choling Dungkhag town, the road is blacktopped for seven kilometres towards Martshala Gewog centre.
While the work has brought benefits, residents say the job is only half done and are urging authorities to complete the remaining stretch so they can fully benefit.
“We would be very grateful if the remaining part of the road is blacktopped. With a good road, we will not have to spend much on vehicle maintenance, and travelling will be more convenient and safer. The current rough road is risky, and if it is fully paved, the community will be extremely thankful,” said Tshegay Dema, Resident, Martshala Gewog, Samdrup Jongkhar.
“It is easier and safer to transport patients on a good road. On rough roads, both patients and drivers struggle, and vehicles also require frequent maintenance. We are grateful for the blacktopping work completed so far, and it will benefit the community even more if the remaining sections are also blacktopped at the earliest,” said Sangay Khandu, Resident, Martshala Gewog, Samdrup Jongkhar.
“Before the blacktopping work, it used to take more than one and a half hours to reach the town. Now, even though only half of the road has been blacktopped, the travel time has been reduced to just 45 minutes. The work needs to continue, as villagers have to bring all essential items from the town, and the current condition is still inconvenient,” said Tshering Chophel, Resident, Martshala Gewog, Samdrup Jongkhar.
According to the Department of Surface Transport, the first package of the blacktopping work has been completed successfully, and the remaining six kilometres will be taken up under the second package within this financial year. The tender work for the next phase is currently under evaluation.
Until then, residents will have to navigate the rough stretch, hoping the road is fully paved soon.