NH-10 in 'critical life' condition: MP calls for urgent action

Arjeeling MP Raju Bista on Saturday undertook an extensive inspection of the Sevoke-Rangpo stretch of national highway-10, describing the present state of the vital lifeline as "critical life" and raising serious concerns over its recurring vulnerability to landslides, sinking zones, and river erosion.

- MANAS R BANNERJEE SILIGURI, 16 AUGUST

Arjeeling MP Raju Bista on Saturday undertook an extensive inspection of the Sevoke-Rangpo stretch of national highway-10, describing the present state of the vital lifeline as "critical life" and raising serious concerns over its recurring vulnerability to landslides, sinking zones, and river erosion. The 52.10 km stretch, now under the charge of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), remains the only dependable road link between Siliguri, Kalimpong, Sikkim and the strategic border areas.

At Setijhora, one of the worst-hit stretches, Bista pointed out large cracks that have rendered the road unsafe for commuters. He said that slope and toe protection work must begin immediately after the Teesta's water level recedes, while emphasizing the urgency of river "desilting" to reduce erosion. Warning against reckless hill cutting, he noted, "The hillside here is a vertical slope, and further excavation is extremely dangerous. For long-term safety, this highway must be realigned and elevated."

The MP also visited Selfie-Dara, where continuous landslides this monsoon have completely blocked the road. Massive deposits of earth and boulders have cut off smooth travel between Sevoke and Kalimpong-Gangtok. NHIDCL has deployed clearance teams, but unstable slopes and persistent heavy rainfall have slowed progress. "This is not a one-time issue; unless we prepare sustainable designs, these recurring blockages will continue to cripple the region," Bista observed.