The Department of Surface Transport is advancing a nationwide Dzongkhag Roads Improvement Programme to strengthen rural connectivity under the 13th Five Year Plan. The initiative focuses on upgrading and blacktopping former Gewog Centre Roads across the country in phased stages.
A total of 146 Dzongkhag Roads covering about 1,954 kilometres have been identified for improvement. Of these, 67 priority roads spanning 971.407 kilometres are being supported through the Government of India Project Tied Assistance, including bridge construction and strengthening works to ensure year-round connectivity.
An allocation of Nu. 4,869.92 million has been approved under the Indian assistance programme. During the 2024–2025 financial year, 23 roads were taken up for improvement, with nine already completed across dzongkhags including Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang, Lhuentse, Paro, Haa, Sarpang, and Samtse.
The remaining 14 roads are under active implementation and are scheduled for phased completion between 2025 and 2028. Major ongoing works include projects in Wangdue Phodrang, Pemagatshel, Samdrup Jongkhar, Zhemgang, Chhukha, Trashigang, Trashiyangtse, Dagana, and Gasa.
For the 2025–2026 financial year, 40 additional Dzongkhag roads have been identified, with 12 targeted for completion within the year. However, 79 roads covering 843.95 kilometres still await improvement, requiring an estimated Nu. 3,055.099 million, subject to funding availability from the Royal Government of Bhutan and development partners.
Alongside road works, bridge construction and climate-resilient strengthening measures are being implemented to enhance safety and ensure uninterrupted access for rural communities nationwide.
