Centre Approves $41 Million Project to Widen Lava-Pedong Road
ROADS & HIGHWAYS

Centre Approves $41 Million Project to Widen Lava-Pedong Road

The central government has approved a Rs 338 crore ($41 million) project to widen and upgrade the Lava-Pedong road, a critical alternative route when National Highway 10 (NH10) faces disruptions. The project, aimed at enhancing road connectivity to Sikkim’s capital, Gangtok, is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and ensure smoother travel between North Bengal and Sikkim.

The road expansion will be executed by the National Highways Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode. The project involves converting the existing stretch into a two-lane road with paved shoulders, with completion targeted within two and a half years.

Darjeeling MP Raju Bista expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, for approving the project. He stated, “Alongside development projects, social and political concerns would also be resolved for the welfare of the people.”

Residents of Pedong, Lava, and nearby areas have long suffered during monsoons when NH10—the primary highway connecting Sikkim—gets blocked, forcing heavy traffic onto narrower, congested alternative routes. The newly sanctioned project aims to resolve these issues, providing improved connectivity throughout Kalimpong district and ensuring a smoother journey to Gangtok.

With the enhancement of NH-717A, both local commuters and visitors can expect better road conditions, reduced congestion, and more efficient connectivity between West Bengal and Sikkim. The initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the region’s infrastructure challenges while promoting economic growth and social welfare.

The central government has approved a Rs 338 crore ($41 million) project to widen and upgrade the Lava-Pedong road, a critical alternative route when National Highway 10 (NH10) faces disruptions. The project, aimed at enhancing road connectivity to Sikkim’s capital, Gangtok, is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and ensure smoother travel between North Bengal and Sikkim. The road expansion will be executed by the National Highways Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode. The project involves converting the existing stretch into a two-lane road with paved shoulders, with completion targeted within two and a half years. Darjeeling MP Raju Bista expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, for approving the project. He stated, “Alongside development projects, social and political concerns would also be resolved for the welfare of the people.” Residents of Pedong, Lava, and nearby areas have long suffered during monsoons when NH10—the primary highway connecting Sikkim—gets blocked, forcing heavy traffic onto narrower, congested alternative routes. The newly sanctioned project aims to resolve these issues, providing improved connectivity throughout Kalimpong district and ensuring a smoother journey to Gangtok. With the enhancement of NH-717A, both local commuters and visitors can expect better road conditions, reduced congestion, and more efficient connectivity between West Bengal and Sikkim. The initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the region’s infrastructure challenges while promoting economic growth and social welfare.

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

Next Story
Resources

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Next Story
Real Estate

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?