𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐔𝐩𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐓𝐨 𝐋𝐚𝐲𝐚 𝐆𝐞𝐰𝐨𝐠 𝐈𝐧 𝐆𝐚𝐬𝐚

…𝒘𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑳𝒂𝒚𝒂 𝑫 𝒓𝒐𝒂𝒅 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒇𝒆𝒕𝒚, 𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒍, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒎 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒔

By Kinzang Lhamo

The improvement of the Laya D Road from Koina to Taktsemakhang marks a significant step in enhancing connectivity to the remote Laya Gewog in Gasa Dzongkhag. The 30-month project, funded by the Government of India and executed by the Department of Surface Transport under the Ministry of Information and Transport, aims to ease longstanding travel difficulties and support socio-economic development in the highlands.

The road has existed for years but posed serious challenges for the local community. Its steep stretches, narrow lanes, and proximity to cliffs made it unsafe and difficult for vehicles to pass. The ongoing improvement is expected to reduce accidents, provide smoother travel, and create a safer, more reliable route for residents, visitors, and transport of goods. The project also reflects the close cooperation between Bhutan and India, with both sides emphasizing timely completion and community benefits.

“There has been a road here for a long time, but it was very difficult for small vehicles to commute. One of the main aims of this improvement is to make the road accessible even for smaller vehicles,” said Karma Tobgay, Tshogpa of Pazhi under Laya Gewog. He noted that the old road created hardships for families relying on small vehicles for essential supplies.

The narrow stretches near cliffs made it risky for vehicles to pass each other, leading to frequent safety concerns. With widening and proper maintenance, these risks are expected to be significantly reduced. Residents will be able to travel safely even during harsh weather, while visitors will find access more convenient, potentially encouraging tourism in the area.

“I feel this upgraded road will greatly benefit us, especially in terms of tourism. Earlier, the narrow road made it inconvenient for visitors, but now small vehicles can easily reach here. For us highlanders, it will also make it easier to bring food and supplies during suitable weather, which is crucial for winter,” added Karma Tobgay.
Pema Jamtsho, Mangmi of Laya, shared that the earlier road was steep and inconvenient. “Even though the Road was narrow, it was very difficult to give way to other vehicles. Before the widening, only Bolero vehicles could commute,” he said. Many residents had to hire such vehicles from Gasa to reach their homes, which was costly and difficult during emergencies such as sickness or urgent supply needs.

With the improvements, a wider range of vehicles can now travel safely, making movement easier for residents and traders. “Now it is much more convenient. We can travel ourselves and no longer need to hire vehicles to transport essential items. The previous road posed serious risks, which are now greatly reduced with the improvements,” Pema Jamtsho added. The project is also expected to lower transport costs and benefit the local economy over the long term.

Local businessman Lhakpa Tshewang also expressed optimism. “The road between Koina and Taktsemakhang used to be very risky, especially when carrying loads. The steep stretches made travel difficult, and there was always the danger of falling rocks,” he said. With proper widening and ongoing maintenance, he explained, the road has become much safer and more reliable for traders and travelers.

“I am very positive about the benefits this improved road will bring. It will make travel much easier for us, support local businesses, and encourage more people, including tourists, to visit this area,” Lhakpa Tshewang added.
The Laya D Road improvement shows how infrastructure projects can transform rural communities. By addressing safety concerns, improving accessibility, and opening new economic opportunities, the project is set to bring lasting benefits to the highlanders of Laya Gewog. Once completed, the road will serve as a vital link connecting the remote region to markets, healthcare, and tourism routes, better integrating the community into the national economy.