Sikkim's Lifeline: NH-10 Severely Cracked, Shuts Down Key Route

NH-10, a critical highway connecting Gangtok in Sikkim to Siliguri in West Bengal, has been closed due to a significant crack in Kalimpong. The road is set to remain shut until August 6 for urgent repairs. Alternative routes are being used for small vehicles, while heavy vehicles are halted.

A critical crack has forced the closure of Sikkim's vital NH-10 highway for three days, officials reported on Monday. The damage was identified in West Bengal's Kalimpong district, prompting an emergency shutdown.

To ensure public safety, the highway was closed at 8 pm on Sunday, spanning the section between Coronation Bridge and Chitrey. The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) is undertaking urgent repairs, aiming to reopen by 6 pm on August 6.

As the main conduit between Gangtok and Siliguri, the closure impacts traffic, notably affecting routes to Kalimpong. The Kalimpong Police have provided alternative routes for smaller vehicles, while the movement of heavy vehicles between Siliguri and Gangtok is currently halted.