Sikkim plans to launch a fair-weather road to the north in two weeks despite connection problems

The Sikkim government has announced plans to establish a fair-weather alternative road to north Sikkim within the next two weeks as the state grapples with road disruptions caused by the devastating glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) of October 2023. N.B. Dahal, Sikkim’s Minister for Roads and Bridges, emphasized that the new road is crucial for enhancing connectivity to the border areas, especially for security purposes.

“Establishing robust connectivity to the border is a priority, given the security concerns and the challenges faced by local residents,” Dahal said, adding that the government is working closely with the Indian Army and the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF). Currently, access to north Sikkim is limited to the longer Dzongu route via Dikchu, as the main Mangan-Chungthang route remains unusable. The new fair-weather route will reconnect north Sikkim through a stretch from Mangan to the village of Naga, reducing travel time by over two hours. However, this road, vulnerable to monsoon damage, will not yet accommodate tourist traffic, as authorities prioritize security and local relief.

Sikkim’s tourism has taken a severe hit due to road closures, with over 300 hotels in north Sikkim closed and reduced tourist inflow across the state. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) has projected a recovery need of Rs 3,673.25 crore and submitted a detailed recovery plan to the Prime Minister. The GLOF’s destruction includes 33 bridges and a major hydropower project, underscoring the state’s critical infrastructure needs.