With closure of NH 10 to heavy traffic, cost of business skyrockets in Sikkim

SANJAY AGARWAL, EOI, RANGPO, 17 NOVEMBER 2023 : The closure of the road for big vehicles between Sikkim and Siliguri at Tista-29 Miles since the October flood has created significant hardships. 

Unable to use this route, large vehicles are forced to take a longer detour via the Lava Road. This longer alternative route has inflated expenses for traders and vehicle owners. While small vehicles are allowed along the National Highway 10,frequent traffic snarls are causing major disruptions for these too. 

While the Sikkim Government has waived the Sikkim Nationalized Transport supervision charge, businesses are suffering due to the exorbitant fares charged by large vehicles. This has particularly impacted middle-class traders, who are finding it increasingly challenging to afford transportation services, with transport costs soaring from double to four times. The longer Lava route not only consumes double the fuel but also extends the travel time, resulting in increased accidents and overall higher expenses. 

Moreover, both private and SNT bus services connecting Sikkim and Siliguri have remained suspended, causing harassment for passengers and substantial losses for bus owners and the SNT department. 

During a visit to the affected areas on Friday, President of Sikkim Truck Drivers Association D. B. Chhetri highlighted the sluggish pace of road repair work and stalled construction. In view of the critical importance of N. H. 10 for Sikkim, Chettri has requested Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to intervene and resolve these pressing issues. 

The President of the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Truck Owners Association has also thrown support behind these efforts, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the challenges facing the affected route