Tourists planning trips to North Sikkim can breathe a sigh of relief as roads to popular destinations like Lachung, Lachen, Yumthang, and Zero Point will remain open from April 19 to 25, despite rumours of a shutdown.
The clarification was issued by the Superintendent of Police, Mangan District, on April 15, stating that no closures are planned. However, due to the Toong-Naga road being closed, the only operational route—Dickchu-Sankalang-Shipgyer-Chungthang—is experiencing heavy congestion.
To manage traffic and ensure safety, strict movement regulations for heavy vehicles have been put in place:
- Phidang–Sankalang–Chungthang: Movement allowed from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Chungthang–Sankalang–Phidang: Movement allowed from 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Phidang Bridge: Load limit capped at 18 tons
- No-stopping rule: Enforced for heavy vehicles on narrow stretches
Violators will face legal action. Emergency vehicles are exempt from these restrictions.