Raju Bista welcomes Central allocation of Rs 22 crore for restoration of NH 55 to Darjeeling

YAWAN GURUNG, EOI, MIRIK, JULY 9, 2024 : In the wake of persistent heavy rains causing widespread devastation across our Darjeeling and Kalimpong hills region, Darjeeling M.P. Raju Bista of the BJP on Tuesday visited places in the Darjeeling hills like Tindharey, Bagmara, Pagla Jhora, Mahanadi, Shivakhola, Sepoydhura, Norbung and Sukna toassess damage and coordinate urgent relief efforts.

In a Press release, Bista said: “Bagmara, known as a model village for its resilient spirit and community unity, has been severely impacted by recent landslides. Bagmara faces significant challenges in the aftermath of the natural disaster, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive support and recovery efforts. 

Our region faces ongoing infrastructure and connectivity challenges along NH-55, particularly in areas like Tindharey, Pagla Jhora and Mahanadi. The recent allocation of Rs 22 crore by the Centre for the restoration of NH-55 is a crucial step forward. Out of this, Rs 4 crore has been earmarked specifically for the restoration of connectivity in Pagla Jhora.

The swift action taken by the Centre to ensure early connectivity in our region is demonstrative of the high priority the Centre has accorded our region. 

Furthermore, I have engaged with West Bengal PWD National Highway Division to expedite the approval of a proposed alternative route worth Rs71 lakh, aimed at restoring connectivity promptly in Pagla Jhora.

In Mahanadi 63 Line under Kurseong sub-division, where significant landslides have disrupted lives, expert consultants will be deployed to assess the landslides and initiate permanent solutions. 

As a gesture of solidarity, I will be providing financial assistance to affected families, including Rs 1 Lakh to a family whose house was completely damaged; and Rs 50,000 each to those with partially damaged houses in Mahanadi 63 Line.

I am committed to supporting every individual and family in need during this challenging times, and I will continue to work tirelessly with all stakeholders to ensure that our constituents receive the necessary support and that our region emerges stronger from this adversity.”