A Dangerous Diversion of Closed National Highway 10

YOWAN MOTHAY, EOI, KALIMPONG, AUGUST 19, 2024 : It has been nearly a month since a landslide occurred on the steep slopes of Birik Dara on National Highway 10, the highway linking Kalimpong and Sikkim with the plains of Siliguri. The efforts of the Public Works Department to cut through the hill and create a new road have not yet yielded results. The work remains incomplete, forcing vehicles to use an alternative route. However, this alternative route has proven to be even more dangerous.

The route, which runs from Birik Dara through Sittong and Latpanchar to Kalijhora, is witnessing a significant increase in traffic. The situation is particularly concerning at Chuche Dhunga in Sittong, where the condition of the road is alarming. Landslides at Chuche Dhunga have left vehicles stranded daily. The slippery roads make it difficult for vehicles to ascend the slopes, often requiring drivers to push their vehicles.

According to local resident Pawan Rai, each day several vehicles get stuck, and drivers are left waiting for help. Navigating the road at Chuche Dhunga is a daunting task for even the most experienced drivers. It is almost a miracle if a vehicle manages to negotiate the muddy stretch at one go. Vehicles frequently get stuck halfway. Fortunately, local volunteers help push the stranded vehicles.

The situation had worsened a few days ago when the road, recently repaired for the passage of vehicles, began to sink, exacerbated by continuous rainfall. However, after sand was spread on the landslide area on Monday, vehicles managed to cross the hazardous section. Travelers have expressed their gratitude to the drivers of Sittong and the youths who have been assisting by pushing the vehicles.