Formation of National Highway 10 Bachao Committee to Address GLOF Crisis

PR, KalimNews, Kalimpong, July 18, 2024 : Following the devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) on October 4, 2023, which caused extensive disruption along National Highway 10, a pivotal meeting was convened under the leadership of social activist Sonam T Bhutia. 

At this meeting, unanimous agreement was reached to form the National Highway 10 Bachao Committee, aimed at addressing the severe aftermath impacting Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Sikkim, and their respective state administrations. 

The newly formed committee aims to advocate for affected communities and pursue effective measures to mitigate the ongoing crisis. 

They have elected the following officials Deepa Rani Thakuri as President, Sonam T Bhutia and Indira Sharma and Norden Wangdi of Darjeeling as Vice Presidents, Subash Mani Singh as Secretary while Jigme T Bhutia as Joint Secretary and Karma T Pempahishey as Chief Advisor and O.B. Das and Narayan Gazmai as Advisors. 

It also had Saroj Rai (Retired Judge) as legal advisor and Coordinators Mithilesh Baraily, Sukraj Rai, Sukhbir Tamang, Phurba Sherpa and Sandeep Rai. 

The committee will focus on immediate relief, long-term rehabilitation, and preventive strategies to ensure the safety and welfare of affected populations. 

They plan to collaborate closely with local authorities, governmental bodies, and stakeholders to restore normalcy and avert future disasters stated a release issued by Jigme T Bhutia the Joint Secretary of the Committee.