A massive landslide has severely disrupted National Highway 10 (NH-10), the critical lifeline connecting Sikkim to West Bengal, stranding commuters and halting traffic. This incident, exacerbated by continuous debris fall, underscores the inherent vulnerability of the region’s infrastructure during the monsoon season and highlights the urgent need for resilient, sustainable transport networks to ensure uninterrupted connectivity for the Himalayan state.
The landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall, brought traffic to a complete standstill on Friday, impacting travel to and from Sikkim and Kalimpong. While the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) is actively engaged in clearing operations, progress remains slow due to ongoing rain and unstable terrain. Commuters, including tourists and residents, are experiencing significant delays, with many vehicles rerouted through the narrow, winding Lava and Jorebunglow alternative routes, leading to increased congestion and frustration.
This is not an isolated event for NH-10, which has faced repeated disruptions this year, with incidents reported as recently as June 2025. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have consistently flagged the region’s exceptional vulnerability to landslides, particularly during the monsoon. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has further issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall in northern Bengal and Sikkim, warning of continued risks over the next few days, signalling a persistent challenge for regional mobility and safety.
The recurring nature of these landslides has intensified calls for long-term solutions. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has acknowledged the issue, sanctioning ₹394 crore in 2023-24 and ₹125 crore in 2024-25 for landslide mitigation projects along the Sevoke-Rangpo stretch of NH-10. These projects aim to address frequent blockages caused by landslides and valley-side subsidence, worsened by events like the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood in October 2023. However, with several crucial projects still in the bidding stage, commuters continue to face disruptions, underscoring the gap between planning and implementation.
Ultimately, ensuring safe and reliable connectivity for Sikkim is paramount for its economic development, tourism, and the daily lives of its citizens. Robust infrastructure improvements, designed to withstand the region’s unique geological and climatic challenges, are essential for fostering sustainable urban and rural growth. By prioritising resilient, eco-friendly road networks, the region can enhance accessibility for all, including women and vulnerable populations, thereby contributing to more gender-neutral and equitable development in this ecologically sensitive part of India.
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