GTA Approves Construction of 12 Bridges to Boost Connectivity in Darjeeling and Kalimpong Districts

KalimNews, March 5, 2025: The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), under the leadership of Chief Executive Anit Thapa, has announced the approval of 12 new bridges across Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, signaling a major infrastructure boost in rural areas. The bridges, with spans ranging from 25 to 75 meters, are expected to enhance connectivity and provide significant benefits to local communities, boosting both accessibility and economic growth.

These projects span across several blocks, including Darjeeling-Pulbazar, Jorebunglow-Sukhiapokhari, and Kurseong in Darjeeling district, as well as Gorubathan in Kalimpong district. The approved projects, include the Kali Khola Bridge (25 meters) along the Road Kainjalay to Maneybhanjyang via Behebarey-Relling, Chewa Khola Bridge (25 meters) along the Road Bijanbari to Lodhoma via Kainjalay and Pandam Khola Bridge (40 meters) along the Road Darjeeling Lebong to Yanku in the Darjeeling-Pulbazar block. In the Jorebunglow-Sukhiapokhri block, it is the Chota Rangit Bridge (45 meters) along the Road Tamsang Fatak to MIM T.E. In the Kalimpong District (Gorubathan Block,) it is the Thip Thang Chu Bridge (18 meters) along the Road Kumani More to Tangta.

Other bridges to be constructed include those at Seyok Fatak to Kothi Gaon 2, Dhotaria Balasun to Intake, Tungsung T.E to Samripani, Namsu to Dhajea Murmah, Namsu to Rinchington, Mahanadi Khola, Mahananda Panchai River, which will address critical gaps in the region’s transport network.

GTA's Chief Executive Anit Thapa emphasized that the administration remains committed to strengthening infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, where such projects are crucial for economic development. “We recognize the importance of improving connectivity as a key driver of growth. Enhanced infrastructure not only elevates the quality of life but also plays a vital role in promoting tourism, a significant sector in our region’s economy,” Thapa shared in a social media post announcing the approvals.

The new bridges are seen as part of GTA’s broader vision to modernize infrastructure and enhance regional connectivity. With a total of 12 bridges approved for construction, this initiative reflects the GTA’s ongoing efforts to create more accessible routes for the people of Darjeeling and Kalimpong, facilitating the movement of goods and people and contributing to the region's overall growth.

The GTA leadership has maintained that these infrastructure projects are being pursued with the sole aim of improving the lives of people in the hills.

As political dynamics continue to shape the region’s development narrative, the approval of these bridges is seen as a significant step in strengthening the infrastructure foundation, ensuring better access to essential services, and fostering economic growth. The GTA remains committed to its mission of enhancing connectivity, especially in the rural areas of Darjeeling and Kalimpong, while contributing to a more prosperous and connected future for the people in these districts.