The bumpy, muddy days are over for the residents of three chiwogs in Samrang Gewog, thanks to a newly blacktopped road that is already bringing significant change to daily life.
Stretching across approximately two kilometres, the freshly paved road now connects the villages of Ngangtshothang Toed, Ngangtshothang Mead, and Damsagang Mead. Once plagued by slippery trails and impassable routes during monsoon seasons, villagers are now enjoying easy and reliable access to transport, markets, and essential services.
The Nu 8.6 million infrastructure upgrade is more than just an aesthetic improvement—residents say it has opened the door to economic opportunities and improved quality of life.
“It has become very convenient now,” shared Deepa Maya Sunwar, a local farmer. “Earlier, vehicle owners refused to come here because the road was in such poor condition. Now, they are willing to drive in, even up to our homes. For someone like me who needs to bring in animal feed regularly, this makes a huge difference. Before, vehicles would often get stuck in the mud.”
For Januka Sunar, the change has meant less physical burden. “We used to carry goods ourselves because transport was unreliable. Now, with the improved road, we can get vehicles anytime we need.”
Beyond transportation, the road has also made access to schools and health centres easier—especially for students and the elderly, who previously had to trek through difficult terrain during harsh weather conditions.
“With the road now blacktopped, life here has become much easier,” added Suraj Gurung. “Earlier, it was a challenge to find any vehicle willing to come. Now, cars and trucks can reach every household without trouble.”
As the villagers begin to reap the benefits of the improved road, there is a shared sense of optimism. What was once a daily struggle through mud and potholes has now been replaced with the promise of economic mobility, better health, and more opportunities for the future.
This small stretch of pavement, built with a significant investment, is already making a big impact.
