GANGTOK, : Darjeeling MP Raju Bistahas shared that the Centre government has allocated Rs. 338 crores for the expansion and widening of road connectivity between Pedong and Lava, and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister of Road, Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari for the same.
“I am happy to share that the National Highways Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has now issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for widening and up-gradation of existing carriageway into 2-lane with paved shoulder from Lava more to the start of Pedong Bypass along NH-717A,” said Bista in a press release on Sunday.
Residents of Pedong, Lava and surrounding areas had to endure major problems this past monsoon. As NH-10 was shut down, the majority of the traffic into Sikkim had to pass through Lava and Pedong. Small roads and increased traffic led to massive congestion and inconvenience to the people in the region.
The project, which will be carried out in the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode, is expected to be completed within two and a half years, once work begins.
Bista said the project will improve highway connectivity in Kalimpong district, reducing congestion and making travel more efficient for both local residents and tourists passing through Lava and Pedong.
“One by one, the development gaps of our region are being addressed. I assure the people that in a similar manner, all social and political issues confronting our region too will be resolved,” Bista added.