Sikkim's Road to Resilience: MP Pushes for Strategic Highway

Sikkim MP Indra Hang Subba urged the Defence Ministry to hasten an alternative highway project. Highlighting its strategic and humanitarian importance, Subba discussed road vulnerabilities and sought support from the Border Roads Organisation and Ministry of Defence for expedited approvals and execution to improve regional connectivity.

On Friday, Sikkim's Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba met with MoS for Defence Sanjay Seth in New Delhi to discuss the pressing need for an alternative highway in the northern reaches of the state. Subba underscored the strategic, developmental, and humanitarian significance of the proposed project. He pointed out the existing road, which connects Gangtok and Zeema via Chungthang and Lachen, is prone to frequent landslides, adverse weather, and challenging terrain.

Subba informed the minister that he had previously engaged in comprehensive discussions with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) concerning the challenges facing North Sikkim's road infrastructure. Although the BRO has expressed its willingness to proceed with the proposal, Subba emphasized that the Ministry of Defence's timely backing would be crucial in expediting the necessary approvals and collaborating effectively with the state government.

Currently, the fragile road to North Sikkim often leaves local communities without vital services and impacts defence readiness. Subba argued that a new highway would not only ensure year-round access but also bolster regional development and act as a vital strategic asset given the proximity to sensitive border areas.

(With inputs from agencies.)