National Highway 10 (NH-10), a critical artery linking Sikkim to West Bengal and the rest of India, will face temporary closures, impacting travel plans for residents and tourists alike.
The 52-km stretch from Sevoke to Rangpo, running parallel to the Teesta River, will be inaccessible for nine hours daily on May 15, 17, and 19, 2025, as authorities undertake urgent repair and maintenance work. These closures, scheduled from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, are necessitated by the need to address damaged sections of the highway and reinforce protections against frequent landslides, particularly in anticipation of the monsoon season. The highway, recently transferred to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), has been plagued by recurring disruptions due to landslips and cave-ins, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.
The anticipated travel disruptions will significantly affect those relying on NH-10 to connect Sikkim’s capital, Gangtok, with Siliguri in West Bengal. Travellers are being advised to consider alternative routes, such as NH717A via Bagrakote or the Military Highway through Gorubathan. However, these detours are expected to substantially increase travel times, potentially doubling the usual two-hour journey from Siliguri to Kalimpong to four hours or more. Officials are urging travellers to meticulously plan their journeys, emphasizing that these temporary closures are essential for ensuring long-term road resilience and safety. Heavy goods vehicles will also face restrictions, with only NHIDCL and Indian Railway Construction International Ltd (IRCON) vehicles permitted under specific circumstances during the closure periods.
The urgency of these repairs is underscored by recent incidents, including a mudslide in North Sikkim and previous landslides in April and September 2024, which have highlighted NH-10’s susceptibility to damage. These events have brought into sharp focus the need for robust and sustainable infrastructure solutions in this ecologically sensitive region. Authorities have stressed the importance of developing long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of natural disasters on this vital transportation corridor. This includes exploring alternative alignments for the highway to enhance its resilience and reduce its vulnerability to landslides.
As the monsoon season approaches, expected in the coming weeks, travellers are strongly advised to stay informed about updates from NHIDCL and local authorities. The potential for further complications on this crucial route remains a concern, making it imperative for individuals to remain vigilant and adaptable in their travel plans. The focus remains on ensuring that the road network can withstand the challenges posed by the region’s unique geographical and climatic conditions, while minimizing disruptions to the lives and livelihoods of those who depend on it.
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