Slated for glass-deck sky walk, Singshore Bridge temporarily closed for technical testing

PRITAM LAMA

GEYZING,: The Singshore Bridge, a popular tourist destination near Uttarey in Gyalshing district, has been temporarily closed for vehicular movement to facilitate technical testing. The closure, which began on September 21 and will last until September 26, is part of the initial steps to convert the existing suspension bridge into a world-class glass deck sky bridge.

The Singshore Suspension Bridge, known for being the highest bridge in Sikkim and the second highest in Asia, is being upgraded following its takeover by the Tourism & Civil Aviation department from the Roads & Bridges department. The proposed conversion to a glass skywalk has been approved by the Ministry of DoNER Tourism, Government of India, prompting the start of survey and technical testing processes by the concerned authorities.

In a public notice, the Roads and Bridges department, Gyalshing district, stated that the bridge would be closed for all vehicular traffic during this period to ensure safety and efficiency in the testing process. However, an alternate diversion road above the bridge is clear and accessible for all types of vehicular movement, it was informed.

This transformation aims to elevate the Singshore Bridge as a premier tourist attraction, enhancing its status and appeal to visitors by offering an exhilarating glass deck experience.

Residents and tourists are advised to use the alternate route until the bridge reopens for regular vehicular traffic after September 26, it was informed.

Local stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, anticipating a significant boost in tourism, which is expected to drive economic growth in the region. The bridge, with its impressive dimensions of over 100 meters in height and 240 meters in length, has long been a marvel of engineering, attracting visitors from around the world. The new glass deck feature will further solidify its reputation as a must-visit destination in Sikkim.