Landslide at Seti Jhora Completely Shuts Down NH-10; One-Way Traffic Expected to Resume Soon

KalimNews, KALIMPONG, SEPTEMBER 17, 2024: National Highway 10, the vital artery connecting Sikkim and the Kalimpong District of West Bengal, has been entirely closed following a massive landslide late Monday night. The landslide at Seti Jhora swept away a significant portion of the road, rendering it unstable and perilous for vehicular traffic.

Kalimpong District Magistrate Balasubramaniam T reported that traffic has been suspended in both directions between Seti Jhora and Rangpo until further notice. This closure has severely disrupted the primary transportation link between Sikkim and Kalimpong, causing significant inconvenience for locals and travelers alike.

In light of the situation, the district administration has advised motorists to seek alternative routes. Vehicles traveling from Rangpo to Siliguri have been rerouted through Munsong, 17th Mile, Algarah, Lava, Gorubathan and Damdim. Conversely, those journeying from Kalimpong to Siliguri can utilize the Relli, Samthar, and Panbu -Kalijhora routes. Authorities have urged travelers to exercise caution while navigating these alternative paths.

In a positive development, backcutting efforts are currently underway to restore traffic on NH-10. Starting Wednesday afternoon, one-way traffic may be reinstated, offering some relief to stranded travelers.

Local drivers and commuters voiced their frustration regarding the ongoing challenges posed by the highway's deteriorating condition. The stretch between Chitrey and Sevoke has become increasingly treacherous, making the need for reliable alternative routes more urgent than ever. Many areas of the road have suffered damage from landslides, with cracks appearing in other sections, raising concerns about potential collapses into the Teesta River.

The current situation is particularly troubling for patients requiring medical treatment in Siliguri, as the alternative routes are longer and incur additional costs. Locals are increasingly calling on the government to implement permanent solutions to the persistent issues of landslides and road closures, which continue to strain daily life in the community.

As the region grapples with these ongoing challenges, residents remain hopeful for swift action and improvements to their essential transport links.