Japan to invest Rs 1,440 crore in 5 projects in Sikkim

PRAKASH ADHIKARI, EOI, GANGTOK, SEPTEMBER 7, 2024 : The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has committed to constructing five major road projects in the state, with a total estimated cost of Rs 1,440 crores. This initiative is aimed at enhancing connectivity and improving road standards across various regions of Sikkim.

In an exclusive interview with Echo of India, Hari Shankar Sharma, the Principal Chief Engineer of the Sikkim Roads and Bridges Department, shared insights into the project. On September 5, a JICA team met with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang in Gangtok to discuss the roadmap for these projects. Currently, the team is conducting site visits to assess the project areas.

When asked about JICA's involvement in constructing these roads, Sharma cited the example of the Sindhuli Road project in Nepal, which was successfully executed under JICA funding and was considered a model of Japanese road technology in the region. The JICA-funded roads in Sikkim are expected to follow the same high standards of construction, he said. This major infrastructure boost is set to improve transportation and promote economic development in Sikkim.

The proposed projects to be undertaken by JICA are:

• Widening and upgradation of the 45 km long road from Singtam-Chew Botey-Pache Kahani-Rangpo at a cost of Rs 391 crore.
• Widening, upgradation, and carpeting of the 27 km long road from Balguney to Soreng via Gelling and Chakung at Rs 222 crore.
• Widening, upgradation, and carpeting of the 60 km long road along Phamtam-Mangnam-Pokhari-Dhupidara-Labdang-Kongri-Tashiding at a cost of Rs 480 crore.
• Widening, upgradation, and carpeting of the 30 km long road along Pangthang-Tintek-Dikchu at a cost of Rs 240 crore.

Additionally, a two-lane bridge will be constructed at Jalipool along the Ranipool-Pakyong road, with upgradation work on the road from Jalipool to Ranipool at a cost of Rs 29 crore.