Massive Landslide Blocks NH 10 Near Bhasua, Strikes Taxi, but Passengers and Driver Escape Unscathed, Traffic closes for 24 hours

KalimNews, July 7, 2025, Kalimpong : A dramatic landslide this morning brought National Highway 10 to a standstill near Bhasua, between Coronation Bridge and Kalijhora, as large boulders tumbled down from the hillside, blocking the road and striking a Savary daily taxi service. The incident, which occurred around 8 am, caused significant disruption, especially for those traveling from Gorubathan to Kalimpong via Coronation Bridge. The taxi, with registration number WB76A 1517, was struck by the boulders, severely damaging the vehicle and forcing an immediate halt to all movement along this key route.

Thankfully, there were no casualties, and all passengers, along with the driver, managed to escape the vehicle just in time. As the boulders continued to cascade down the hillside, the passengers and driver acted swiftly, abandoning the vehicle moments before larger boulders struck the taxi. This timely action prevented what could have easily turned into a deadly accident. Despite the narrow escape, both the vehicle and the road were left badly damaged, with debris from the landslide completely obstructing the highway.

In response to the emergency, authorities worked tirelessly to clear the debris and restore at least a single-lane traffic flow. However, traffic was blocked for over four hours, as heavy equipment was deployed to remove the massive rocks and clear the area. The National Highway and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL), in coordination with local district administration, issued an urgent public notice informing that NH 10 at Bhasua would remain closed for 24 hours starting at 6 pm on the same day. This closure, from Coronation Bridge to Teesta, would prevent all types of vehicle movement, allowing workers to fully assess and repair the damage.

As efforts continue to restore the highway, authorities have assured commuters that the necessary work is being done to reopen the road as quickly and safely as possible. Drivers are being urged to use alternate routes to avoid further delays and to remain vigilant regarding updates from official channels on any changes to the road closure.

The landslide has underscored the vulnerability of this section of National Highway 10, particularly during the monsoon season when such natural disasters are more frequent. Local officials have highlighted the importance of road safety measures, and authorities are expected to implement new preventive strategies to reduce the risk of future landslides and similar disruptions.

While this incident caused significant inconvenience to travelers, it also served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable hazards that can arise in hilly terrains. Fortunately, the quick thinking of the passengers and driver helped avert a tragedy, ensuring that no lives were lost, and no one was injured.

Travelers are urged to stay updated through official announcements for any changes regarding the road's reopening and advised to plan their journeys accordingly. The ongoing recovery efforts serve as a testament to the resilience of the local authorities and the community in overcoming such unexpected challenges.