Sikkim MP Urges Fast Track Solution For NH-10 Landslide Stretch

Indra Hang Subba, Member of Parliament, pressed the Union minister for road transport and highways to expedite a permanent solution to recurrent landslides on National Highway 10, describing the route as the state lifeline. The appeal was made during a meeting with the minister at Parliament House in New Delhi, where the MP submitted a memorandum detailing the frequency and consequences of the disruptions. The submission underlined the urgency of intervention to safeguard movement of people and goods.

He highlighted how repeated stoppages on the corridor disrupt the supply of essential commodities, curtail tourism activity, impede trade and unsettle everyday life in communities dependent on the highway. The MP requested a comprehensive geotechnical investigation of the vulnerable stretch to establish the causes and inform engineering choices. He proposed that, based on evidence, authorities consider construction of tunnels as a durable alternative to repeated slope works.

He noted that earlier slope stabilisation measures have not prevented the frequent failures and said interim works have proved insufficient during intense monsoon spells. The MP argued a tunnel-based solution would provide safer all-weather connectivity, reduce susceptibility to seasonal slides and lower the need for recurrent emergency repairs. He urged the ministry to assemble appropriate technical expertise to identify the most suitable engineering remedy and to set clear timelines for implementation.

The memorandum set out anticipated benefits of a long-term solution for resilience of supply chains and the regional economy and urged prompt allocation of resources and project planning. It also requested that community concerns and environmental safeguards be integrated into project design to ensure sustainability and local acceptance. Officials said they would review the submission and consider expert inputs before announcing a course of action.

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