Anit Thapa Inaugurates Steel Bridge, Calls for Sustainable Tourism in the Hills

Amitava Banerjee, MP, June 3, 2026, Darjeeling : Anit Thapa, Chief Executive of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), on Tuesday inaugurated a newly constructed 61-metre steel bridge over the Rangbul Khola in Rangmuk Dhotariya.

Addressing a gathering after the inauguration, Thapa stated that the bridge was a result of the GTA’s commitment to prioritising essential development works after assuming office.

“After winning the GTA elections, we identified and prioritised the most urgent developmental needs. The construction of this 61 metre steel bridge in the Dhotariya Rangmuk area is part of that effort and has been undertaken keeping in mind the requirements of the local people,” he said.

The bridge connects two hills and would help save travel time and cost for local residents, added Thapa.

Reiterating Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha’s (BGPM) political philosophy, Thapa, who is also the President, said the party was founded with a clear vision centred on peace and development in the Hills and would continue to pursue that path.

He stressed that BGPM believed in working in cooperation with the State Government rather than in confrontation.

“We have time and again stressed that we would work with the government and not against it. We maintain the same stand today and will continue to do so in the future,” he remarked.

Pointing out that the GTA was a statutory body created under the State Act, Thapa said cooperation with the State Government was essential for carrying out development works.

“Our struggle is ideological. Elections will come and go, but our journey and our commitment to our principles will continue,” he added.

The BGPM chief also urged elected representatives and party workers to remain committed to the party’s ideals, irrespective of political affiliations and continue serving the people sincerely.

Expressing concern over increasing tourist pressure on Darjeeling town, Thapa said the influx of visitors had reached a point where local residents were facing difficulties.

He called for the promotion of tourism in the surrounding tea estates and neighbouring areas to ease the burden on Darjeeling.

Highlighting the importance of infrastructure, Thapa said roads and bridges were vital for the Hills but stressed that people must be able to benefit from such projects.

“The elections are over and the results are known. Now it is time to work together for the progress of the Hills. Development cannot be achieved through conflict and constant complaints,” he said, focusing on unity and sustainable tourism.

Courtesy & source- Millennium Post