NHAI to Soon Take Over Management of Sikkim’s Lifeline NH-10, Enhancing Connectivity with West Bengal: Minister NB Dahal
First Published: 29th October, 2024 9:57 IST
Minister Dahal said that the highways from Rangpo to Ranipool and Rangpo to Rorathang will also be upgraded to double lanes
In a significant development for regional infrastructure, National Highway 10, which stretches from Sevoke in West Bengal to Rangpo in Sikkim will soon be taken over by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) for better management, said Sikkim’s Roads and Bridges Minister, NB Dahal.
Minister Dahal made this announcement after meeting with Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari and senior officials in New Delhi on Monday.
He stated that the decision to hand over NH-10 to NHAI will be finalized within a week.
“We have been facing numerous challenges with NH-10. Whenever the roads are damaged, we can’t access medical facilities or receive essential commodities because no vehicles can get through. This situation has put us in a lot of trouble. It requires the Government of India’s attention, as Sikkim has often been neglected. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has assured us that the Centre will expedite all pending work to manage the road. Very soon, NH-10 will be handed over to NHAI,” said Minister Dahal.
Currently managed by the West Bengal Public Works Department (PWD), NH-10 is a crucial route connecting Sikkim.
However, the roads often suffer damage due to heavy rains and landslides. This year, the highway was nearly cut off from traffic multiple times due to such damages, emphasising the urgent need for effective solutions to enhance Sikkim’s road infrastructure.
The transition to NHAI oversight is expected to improve road maintenance and enhance connectivity between the two states.
Additionally, Minister Dahal said that the highways from Rangpo to Ranipool and Rangpo to Rorathang will be upgraded to double lanes. A new alternative route from Melli to Singtam is also set to be initiated after discussions with the Government of India.
Earlier this month, Minister NB Dahal urged the West Bengal Government to prioritise the maintenance of NH-10.
Also Read: Sikkim Minister NB Dahal Urges West Bengal Govt To Prioritise Maintenance Of NH-10
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