Advertisement
The Sikkim government has raised concerns over frequent, unannounced closures of National Highway 10 (NH-10), the main route connecting the state to the rest of India. Authorities say even minor maintenance works often result in full-day closures without prior intimation, disrupting tourism and local transport. The state has urged NHIDCL for better coordination, advance notifications, and improved communication. Officials also suggested real-time updates via a digital platform, clearly marked diversion routes, and proper signage to ensure smoother movement for tourists and residents.
The Sikkim government has formally written to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) regarding the frequent and sudden closures of National Highway 10 (NH-10), a vital route connecting the state to other parts of India. Officials have noted that these closures, often for minor maintenance work, disrupt the movement of people and goods, significantly affecting tourism, which forms a major part of the state's economy. Advertisement
Additional Chief Secretary of the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, CS Rao, in a letter to NHIDCL General Manager Samrat Sanyal, pointed out that both the frequency and duration of these closures have increased over the past year. He highlighted that recent notices for highway closures were issued without adequate coordination with tourism stakeholders and government departments, causing inconvenience and negatively impacting tourist inflow and the livelihoods of operators.
The state requested that any planned road closure, especially during peak tourist periods, should be avoided. If closures are unavoidable, they should not last an entire day and must be communicated well in advance to all relevant authorities and stakeholders. Rao emphasized the importance of timely and clear communication through proper channels to keep the public informed about the status of NH-10.
In case of necessary closures, the government suggested that clearly marked diversion routes be arranged, supported with proper signage, traffic personnel, and public announcements to guide travelers effectively. A centralized digital platform or mobile app providing real-time updates on road conditions, closures, diversions, and estimated restoration timelines was also recommended to help both tourists and local operators plan their travel efficiently.
Tourism stakeholders have repeatedly raised concerns over these ongoing obstructions, highlighting that they directly affect the overall tourism ecosystem. The Sikkim government's letter underscores the need for better coordination and structured planning to ensure the smooth functioning of this essential highway and protect the interests of residents and visitors alike.
Source: PTI
5th Jun, 2025
25th May, 2023
11th May, 2023
27th Apr, 2023
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
