A new era of connectivity and cultural pride has arrived in southern Bhutan with the completion of the much-anticipated Bazam over the Omchhu River in Phuentsholing. The bridge, part of the ambitious Phuentsholing Township Development Project (PTDP), is set to be officially inaugurated by the end of September, already drawing locals and visitors eager to witness its unique design and elegance.
Built at a cost of Nu 31 million with financial backing from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Bazam is believed to be the first traditionally inspired pedestrian bridge in southern Bhutan. Stretching 50 meters in length and 3.5 meters in width, it spans 5.7 meters above the Omchhu, connecting the township’s workshop area to the PTDP site.
Unlike conventional timber bridges, the Bazam combines durability with tradition: its core is constructed with concrete and weather-resistant steel, while the walkway, staircases, and walls are crafted from stone slabs. “It is 100 percent infused with Bhutanese architectural elements and designed to last at least 70 years,” said the project engineer.
The bridge’s aesthetic appeal is already capturing attention beyond Bhutan’s borders. “Even now, people from across India visit just to glimpse this majestic bridge and admire its craftsmanship,” the engineer added.
The Bazam was constructed through a joint venture between Nepal-based Kalika Company and Bhutan’s Rigsar Construction Company, combining regional expertise with local knowledge. Its completion is a milestone for the PTDP, a transformative initiative spanning 157 acres of reclaimed land along the Amochhu River. With flood protection measures and slope stabilization works, the township aims to blend Bhutanese cultural heritage with modern urban design, creating a model of sustainable development.
The Bazam is more than just a bridge; it is a symbol of Bhutan’s commitment to harmonizing tradition and modernity. Its presence enhances the township’s visual identity, encourages pedestrian mobility, and stands as a cultural landmark for Phuentsholing’s evolving landscape.
The PTDP itself is a comprehensive urban vision, featuring nine precincts including residential, commercial, mixed-use, and green spaces. Plans include 165 residential buildings, four commercial complexes, 30 mixed-use structures, and five convention centers. In addition, extensive recreational areas—such as amusement parks, sports facilities, and open green spaces—are designed to support a projected population of 11,000 to 15,000 residents.
Built on principles of new urbanism, the development emphasizes walkability, environmental sustainability, and smart infrastructure, with over 50 percent of the area dedicated to open spaces. The Bazam, in this context, is both functional and emblematic, reflecting Bhutan’s enduring dedication to urban planning that respects heritage while embracing the future.
As Phuentsholing prepares to welcome the official opening of the Bazam, the bridge already stands as a beacon of innovation, cultural pride, and connectivity, signaling a bold step in Bhutan’s journey toward modern, sustainable urban landscapes.
Tashi Namgyal from Phuentsholing
