Project DANTAK Marks 66th Raising Day in Bhutan, Celebrates Decades of India–Bhutan Infrastructure Partnership

Over the decades, Project DANTAK has played a transformative role in Bhutan’s connectivity and socio-economic development.

Thimphu: Border Roads Organisation’s Project DANTAK celebrated its 66th Raising Day in Bhutan, commemorating over six decades of infrastructure development and strategic partnership between India and Bhutan.

The event, held in Thimphu on Friday, marked 65 years of DANTAK’s presence in Bhutan since its establishment in April 1961. The celebrations featured a series of activities including an inter-school quiz competition, felicitation of distinguished personnel, and tributes to those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Over the decades, Project DANTAK has played a transformative role in Bhutan’s connectivity and socio-economic development. From constructing the country’s first motorable road to executing large-scale infrastructure projects, the initiative has built over 1,500 km of roads across the Himalayan nation, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

Key projects include the strategically vital East–West Highway connecting Trashigang to Thimphu, the Phuentsholing–Thimphu Highway, and critical infrastructure such as Paro International Airport and Yongphula Airport. The project has also contributed to building bridges, hydropower systems, telecom networks, hospitals, and educational institutions across Bhutan.

In recent years, the focus has shifted toward modernization and capacity enhancement. This includes double-laning of key stretches such as the Confluence–Haa road and the 168-km Samdrup Jongkhar–Trashigang highway, improving travel efficiency and safety. The organisation has also demonstrated rapid response capabilities by restoring connectivity during landslides and natural disasters.

Ongoing works under Project DANTAK include road construction and upgrades in the south-eastern regions such as Nganglam–Dewathang, Samrang–Jomotsangkha, and Khotakpa–Tshobaley, along with highway strengthening along the Damchu–Chhukha axis. Bridge construction and alternate alignment projects, including Panbang–Nganglam and Dewathang–Samdrupcholing, are also underway.

The project continues to align with Bhutan’s developmental priorities while maintaining environmental sensitivity in its operations.

The visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Bhutan in November 2025 reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to deepen bilateral cooperation. Project DANTAK remains a cornerstone of this enduring partnership, symbolizing shared progress and regional connectivity.