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.
