Project Dantak of India’s Border Roads Organization and the State Trading Corporation of Bhutan Limited (STCBL) have renewed their cooperation with the signing of a fresh Memorandum of Understanding to supply petrol and diesel for the coming year. The agreement secures fuel for Project Dantak’s extensive fleet of vehicles and engineering equipment operating across Bhutan, ensuring that construction and maintenance activities continue without disruption.
Under the one-year arrangement, fuel will be provided to all sub-units of Project Dantak, supporting a wide range of operations—from heavy earthmoving machinery to transport vehicles deployed in remote and challenging terrain. Officials said the assured supply is vital for maintaining momentum on ongoing infrastructure projects throughout the country.
The latest MoU builds on a partnership that has been in place for more than five years. Last year’s agreement was valued at over Nu 64 million, and the current supply arrangement is expected to be of a similar scale, reflecting the steady and substantial operational needs of the project.
Established in 1961, Project Dantak has been a cornerstone of Bhutan’s infrastructure development for over six decades. Its work has transformed connectivity by linking isolated regions, improving access to markets and services, and supporting broader socio-economic growth through the construction and upkeep of roads, highways, bridges, and related infrastructure.
In recent years, Project Dantak has also deepened its engagement with Bhutanese contractors, institutions, and vendors, contributing directly to the local economy. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Chief Engineer Brigadier Rohit Gupta said the renewed agreement reaffirmed Project Dantak’s commitment to its guiding principle of “Connecting People – Connecting Countries,” while also underscoring the importance of sourcing locally and supporting Bhutanese enterprises.
STCBL Chief Executive Officer Leki Dendup welcomed the continuation of the partnership, noting that it aligns with the corporation’s mandate to facilitate national development by supporting critical infrastructure projects. He expressed satisfaction at extending the long-standing association with Project Dantak.
The renewed fuel supply agreement stands as another example of the close cooperation between India and Bhutan, highlighting a relationship built on trust and shared development objectives as Bhutan continues to advance its infrastructure and connectivity goals.
