NHIDCL to Take Up Repair of Old Trade Route to Tibet from Kalimpong

Yowan Mothay, EOI, Kalimpong, November 4, 2024 : The historic old trade route to Tibet, connecting Pedong Bazaar through Reshi to neighboring Sikkim, has deteriorated significantly, causing major inconveniences for travelers and affecting local tourism. The stretch of the road between Topkhana and Farm Golai has become almost impassable, prompting widespread public complaints and calls for immediate action.

Community representatives, led by social activist Sebastian Pradhan and members of Pedong Gram Panchayat, have been spearheading repair efforts. Alongside local organizations and residents, Pradhan and his team have initiated necessary maintenance to address the worsening condition of the road. Recently, with the support of Pedong Block Panchayat Committee Chairman Pushpa Subba and activist Sachin Bhotiya, temporary repairs were completed on parts of the route.

Pradhan, on Monday, expressed gratitude to all the groups contributing to these efforts. He noted that the current state of the route had impacted ecotourism, as this route connects to numerous tourist sites. Due to the damaged road, tourist arrivals this season had been lower than expected, he said.

This path served as a trade route between India and Tibet during the 1950s and 60s. Initially constructed by the PWD, it was later transferred to the General Reserve Engineering Force (GREF). With the maintenance of the route languishing over the years, it has now been suggested that repairs might soon be managed by the National Highway and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL). NHIDCL plans to hand the route back to the PWD upon completion of repairs.

Amid closures of National Highway 10, the old trade route has also been used as an alternative route for traveling to Sikkim from the plains of Siliguri, underscoring its significance.

Pradhan urged political leaders and organizations to prioritize repairs, burying political differences, and emphasized the value of the route to protect the heritage of Pedong. In an effort to restore the route, a formal appeal has been made to local truck organizations to support the transport of materials.

Plans are also underway to establish a larger committee with local Panchayat members and civic bodies to oversee sustainable improvements. Pradhan highlighted the need for coordinated, long-term solutions to safeguard the eco-tourism and historical legacy of the area.