For years, residents of Rongchhuthang Chiwog in Langchenphu Gewog, Samdrup Jongkhar, faced isolation during the monsoon as the swollen Golanthi River cut off the community from schools, markets, hospitals, and other essential services. The 23 households often had to wait for the water level to recede, creating serious challenges, particularly during emergencies. That hardship has now eased with the completion of a new motorable bridge by Project DANTAK in June. Residents say the bridge has brought safer, more reliable year-round access, allowing them to travel to town even during the rainy season. The improved connectivity is also expected to support livelihoods, with farmers planning to increase areca nut production and transport milk and cheese to markets more easily. Project DANTAK invested Nu 53 million in constructing the bridge and protection walls beneath it, strengthening the structure and improving its resilience. For the people of Rongchhuthang, the bridge marks more than improved transportation—it represents greater security, mobility, and new opportunities for economic activity.
