NH-10 remains shut until Oct 16 for repairs

PANKAJ DHUNGEL

RANGPO, : Sikkim’s principal route National Highway 10 has once again been closed for repairs from October 13 to 16, as per an official order issued by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). The closure, starting Monday, restricts vehicle movement along the Sevoke stretch in West Bengal up to Rangpo in Sikkim.

The affected section, particularly at the 38-kilometre mark from Sevoke, has sunk by nearly two metres, severely hampering traffic. Additionally, the 29th Mile and 27th Mile stretches closer to Sevoke have experienced repeated landslides and road collapses, causing significant traffic disruptions. These areas witnessed long traffic jams during the recent Dasain festival rush, affecting travel between Bengal and Sikkim.

With NH-10 closed, the alternative route through Munsung via Lava-Gorubathan to reach the Coronation Bridge now serves as the only connectivity to Siliguri for residents and travelers from Sikkim and North Bengal.

Since the 2023 glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF), key stretches of NH-10 on the West Bengal side have been prone to recurring landslides, exacerbated by the flood's impact.

PrakashTamang, a contractor with NHIDCL, noted that despite multiple attempts, the damaged stretch has remained in poor condition.

“We tried several times to repair the stretch, but it didn’t work. Earlier, we were told to begin cutting work, but permission was repeatedly denied. Now that we have the go-ahead, the work should be completed in three to four days. The road has sunk nearly two to three metres and needs proper leveling and riverbank protection. Without full protection, the issue will keep recurring,” Tamang said.

Arun Kumar, a restaurant owner along the highway, shared how the persistent road damage has severely impacted local businesses.

“Business has been badly affected. October to January is our peak season, but this year it’s completely down. Since 2023, we’ve faced constant losses due to roadblocks and collapses. Supplies from Siliguri have become costly, and we’re forced to buy at nearly double the rates locally. Almost every shop here is facing the same issue,” Kumar said.

While the upcoming winter months may allow more frequent repair works due to drier weather, the same season also brings tourists to the region. Ongoing road closures and poor infrastructure could hamper tourism in both Sikkim and North Bengal.