Raju Bista Urges Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for Comprehensive Infrastructure Projects to Ease Traffic in Darjeeling Hills

KalimNews, Kalimpong, 9 July 2025 : In a significant move aimed at improving connectivity and addressing the persistent traffic congestion in the Darjeeling hills, Darjeeling Member of Parliament (MP) Raju Bista has expressed his gratitude to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) for initiating the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for an alternative highway to Darjeeling. The proposed route will pass through Lebong, Dabai Pani, and Teesta, offering a much-needed alternative to the heavily congested National Highway 110 (NH-110), which was originally constructed during the British era.

In his communication to the Ministry, Bista welcomed the DPR as a major step forward for the region. He has been advocating for improved infrastructure in the Darjeeling hills for quite some time, and this move by the Ministry is seen as a response to growing concerns about the overburdened roads that have failed to meet the needs of residents, tourists, and local businesses alike.

However, Bista has also underscored the need for an additional, more efficient route between Siliguri and Darjeeling. Citing the severe traffic jams and delays caused by the existing NH-110, which is now outdated and increasingly inadequate to handle the traffic load, the MP has proposed an alternative route that would begin in Siliguri and pass through Orali, Balason, Dhotrey, Pussumbeng, Ghoom, and finally reach Darjeeling. This new alignment is expected to significantly reduce congestion, improve connectivity, and ease access to key areas in the region, including Kurseong, Mirik, Sonada, Rangbull, Sukhia Pokhari, and Pokhriabong valley.

Bista has also called on the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to conduct a detailed feasibility and alignment study for the proposed route. He emphasized that the current state of NH-110 is a major source of stress for the local population, including daily commuters, medical patients, students, and tourists. "The proposed alternative highway would not only offer a safer and more efficient route for travelers but would also relieve pressure on the existing road," Bista stated in his letter to the Ministry.

In a further bid to address the growing traffic concerns in the region, Bista has suggested the development of a ropeway between Ghoom and Darjeeling under the Parvatmala Project, which aims to provide eco-friendly transportation solutions in hilly regions. The proposed ropeway would offer a cleaner, more efficient, and reliable transportation alternative, reduce traffic congestion, and help preserve the natural beauty of the Darjeeling hills by lowering pollution levels.

Bista expressed confidence that the Parvatmala Project, which focuses on improving connectivity in hill areas through ropeway infrastructure, fits perfectly with the region’s needs. He has formally requested the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to include the ropeway project in the Parvatmala framework and to initiate a feasibility study for its implementation. "Given the challenges posed by the hilly terrain, this project would not only be a modern and efficient solution to connectivity issues but would also enhance tourism and reduce road traffic," Bista added.

Supporting his request, Bista highlighted that several non-political organizations in the region have also expressed their backing for both the alternative highway and the ropeway project. These organizations, representing local businesses, residents, and environmental groups, have all shown solidarity in advocating for improved infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the area.

Bista has reiterated that these infrastructure initiatives are critical to addressing rising congestion, improving connectivity, and ensuring the sustainable development of the Darjeeling-Siliguri region. He expressed his hope that with the full support of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, work on these much-needed projects will commence soon. "The people of Darjeeling and Siliguri are committed to supporting these vital infrastructure developments. These projects are not just about easing traffic, but also about fostering economic growth, improving the quality of life, and preserving the natural heritage of our beautiful region," said Bista.

With these proactive steps, Bista is confident that the region will see significant improvements in transportation, reducing stress on its overburdened road systems, and ensuring that Darjeeling remains accessible and vibrant for both locals and tourists alike.