Landslide brings NH10 traffic to halt ahead of CM's

SNS, Kalimpong, 21 September: After the state chief minister Miss Mamata Banerjee announced separate district for Kalimpong district last November, Miss Banerjee reached the new district late evening around 6:20 p.m here today.

However, as apprehended earlier, traffic along NH 10 came to a halt hours before CM was to reach Kalimpong after fresh landslide took place at Tarjan Jhora at around 3:15 p.m. The state PWD which is incharge of NH 10 quickly went into action and with the help of three JCBs cleared the debris in a span of an hour, just before the CM crossed the zone.

Thousands of people from different communities lined up at different places to welcome the CM amidst demands for separate development boards. Miss Banerjee will attend the foundation day of Myang Lyang Lepcha Development Board (MLLDB) which is scheduled on Thursday at Mela Ground here. Notably, the Lepchas have given the title of Kingchoom Darmit (Goddess of Fortune) to CM Banerjee in the year 2013, citing her works that reinforced the upliftment of the indigenous tribe of the hill region

Speaking to media person, a resident of uphill Chandralok, Mr Palden Sherpa said, "We are happy as the chief minister with her frequent visits has managed to make a place inside our hearts. We can see Kalimpong is developing steadily this time around."

Another businessman, Mrs Indira Gurung of 9th Mile said, "We are pleased with what has been surfacing as of now we want Miss Banerjee to address issues relating to employment and tourism.

"The pace of development this time around is unlike anything before"

Meanwhile, members of Lepcha, Tamang, Sherpa Manger, Khas, Mukhiya, Jogi, Gurung among noticed along with Jan Andolan Party (JAP) and hill TMC from NH 10 Coronation Bridge to Deolo welcomed the chief minister.

As noticed, 9th Mile and Damber Chowk of Kalimpong town witnessed members of different communities gathering from 9:00 am in the morning.

The CM did not halt anywhere in the town but she greeted the masses through her convoy which moved slowly owing to the rush for a glimpse of Miss Banerjee.