Road reconstruction work starts after MLA intervention

Wednesday, May 06, 2026 22:45 [IST]

Last Update: Tuesday, May 05, 2026 17:10 [IST]

Road reconstruction work starts after MLA intervention

KUSH HANG LEEWANG

GEYZING,: Reconstruction work on a half-kilometre stretch of Geyzing-Sakyong road has commenced following the intervention of area MLA Loknath Sharma.

The stretch near Geyzing Bazaar, which serves as a crucial link to villages in Sakyong block under Yangthang constituency as well as parts of Geyzing-Bermiok constituency, had been in a dilapidated condition for a long time, causing hardship to commuters.

Acting on repeated public demands, Sharma inspected the affected portion a few days ago and took up the matter with State Roads and Bridges department, urging immediate restoration.

The department has since begun reconstruction work on a war footing despite continuous rainfall, officials said.

The Geyzing-Sakyong road, located on steep and sinking terrain, is highly prone to landslides, particularly during the monsoon. The route has suffered frequent disruptions over the years, with a section remaining closed for nearly a month last year due to extensive damage.

The road is a vital lifeline for residents, including students and farmers, and plays a key role in the transportation of organic vegetables from villages such as Yangtey, Sakyong and Bhaluthang to Geyzing Bazaar.

Disruptions often force traders to resort to manual transhipment of goods by hiring porters, significantly increasing costs and affecting profit margins, especially for small-scale vendors.

Despite long-standing demands for a permanent solution, only temporary measures such as realignment and periodic clearance have been undertaken so far.

Roads and Bridges DE Uttam Basnet said there is currently no provision for carpeting the stretch due to the unstable nature of the terrain.

“Road soling work to ensure smooth traffic flow remains the priority at present. Carpeting will be considered once the land stabilises,” he said.

Officials expressed hope that the ongoing work will provide relief to villagers who depend heavily on the route for connectivity and livelihood.

 

Sikkim at a Glance

  • Area: 7096 Sq Kms
  • Capital: Gangtok
  • Altitude: 5,840 ft
  • Population: 6.10 Lakhs
  • Topography: Hilly terrain elevation from 600 to over 28,509 ft above sea level
  • Climate:
  • Summer: Min- 13°C - Max 21°C
  • Winter: Min- 0.48°C - Max 13°C
  • Rainfall: 325 cms per annum
  • Language Spoken: Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, Tibetan, English, Hindi