The closure of a section of National Highway 10 (NH 10) for renovations has thrown travelers into disarray, fostering frustration and exploitation among motorists. Commencing Monday morning, the 72-hour shutdown has particularly disrupted journeys for tourists heading to Kalimpong and Sikkim.
With NH 10 inaccessible, travelers have diverted through Gorubathan-Algarah, where opportunistic drivers have seized the chance to inflate fares, nearly doubling the usual rates. This has compounded the woes of travelers, extending journey times from 4-5 hours to a grueling 8-9 hours, especially impacting sightseeing plans.
Meanwhile, alternative routes, such as the road connecting Kalijhoda to Panbu via Mandir Khola to Reli Kalimpong, have buckled under the increased traffic load. Described as “deplorable,” this route suffers from washed-away culverts, blocked drains, and narrow passages, amplifying the challenges for motorists.
Dhanraj Bhujel, a member of the Yangmakum panchayat committee, stresses the urgency of addressing these issues. He underscores the potential of alternative routes to serve as viable substitutes for NH 10, especially during adverse weather conditions. Bhujel advocates for immediate repairs and infrastructure upgrades to ensure smoother travel experiences.
As NH 10 remains closed, travelers await relief, with hopes pinned on authorities to mitigate the immediate disruptions and implement long-term solutions for seamless connectivity.
