GANGTOK: The Union government has approved allocation of Rs. 770.25 crore for widening and upgradation on NH-717A to a two-lane highway with paved shoulders in West Bengal and Sikkim.
Darjeeling MP Raju Bista welcomed this fund allocation as shared by Union Road, Transport and Highways minister Nitin Gadkari.
The project covers 18.42 km from Lavamore to the start of Pedong Bypass and includes critical slope protection works along the Bagrakot-Kafer stretch in Kalimpong, and 5.297 km from Reshi to Rhenock in Sikkim.
Gadkari further shared that, “As a climate-resilient alternative to NH-10-often disrupted during monsoons-the upgraded corridor will employ advanced technologies like Self Drilling Anchors and Gabion structures. This initiative will significantly enhance regional connectivity, facilitate all-weather access, and boost tourism and socio-economic development.”
In his media statement, the Darjeeling MP said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Road, Transport & Highways minister Nitin Gadkari, the development of highway network across Darjeeling hills, Terai and Dooars region is moving at a rocket-pace.
“During my visits to NH-717A in the past, my attention had been drawn to the fact that during the DPR preparation, slope stabilization and protection had not been factored in. I had requested the Union minister for his kind intervention, as unstable slopes can cause landslides, soil erosion and posing grave safety risk to the people,” said Bista.
Bista visited NH-717A on Saturday, adding that it is going to be one of the most beautiful, green and picturesque highways in India. This will give a massive boost to tourism, trade, commerce and regional transportation, he said.