Imagine a
winding road that snakes its way through verdant hills and twisting valleys,
connecting the isolated state of Sikkim with the vibrant expanse of India. This
is National Highway 10 (NH 10), previously known as NH 31A. It serves as a
lifeline in northeastern India, stretching from the Indo-Bangladesh border to
the tranquil city of Gangtok. Though NH 10 is crucial for bridging these
diverse regions, it faces significant challenges, particularly during the
monsoon season.
The Journey
Through the Northeast
NH 10 begins its
journey at the Indo-Bangladesh border near Phulbari, meandering through the
lively towns of Siliguri, Sevoke, Kalijhora, and Rambi Bazar in West Bengal. It
then flows past Teesta Bazaar and Kalimpong before entering Sikkim. Within
Sikkim, the highway winds through Rangpo, Majitar, Singtam, and Ranipool,
culminating in the bustling city of Gangtok. NH 10 is more than just a road; it
is a vital artery that links the Himalayan charm of Sikkim with the broader
Indian infrastructure network.
A standout
feature of NH 10 is the Atal Setu Bridge, the longest roadway bridge in Sikkim.
Stretching 1,123 meters (3,684 feet), this impressive structure is situated at
Rangpo in the Pakyong district of Sikkim. Inaugurated on November 4, 2022, by
the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, the Atal Setu Bridge was
constructed by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation
Limited (NHIDCL). Spanning the border between West Bengal's Kalimpong district
and Sikkim's Pakyong District, the bridge not only showcases remarkable
engineering but also underscores the critical role of NH 10 in maintaining
vital connectivity across this remote region.
Battling the
Monsoon: A Seasonal Challenge
Despite its
crucial role, NH 10 grapples with formidable challenges, especially during the
monsoon season. As the rains pour down, they bring a series of obstacles that
put the resilience of this vital route to the test.
Imagine the road
cutting through the hilly landscape suddenly giving way under the relentless
downpour. Landslides become a frequent hazard, with the earth shifting and
blocking the road. These landslides not only disrupt essential transportation
but also turn the journey perilous for travelers.
Then there’s the
issue of erosion and flooding. Persistent rainfall wears away road surfaces and
destabilizes riverbanks, jeopardizing the stability of the highway. In some
areas, the road is prone to flooding, transforming it into a treacherous path
where travel becomes increasingly hazardous.
Maintaining NH
10 during the monsoon is no easy feat. The constant washouts and debris from
landslides demand immediate attention from maintenance crews. These teams are
under immense pressure to keep the road safe and passable amid the chaos
wrought by the weather.
Safety concerns
are a constant companion in the rainy season. Slippery roads, reduced
visibility, and potential roadblocks create a daunting driving environment. The
risk of accidents rises significantly, making road safety a pressing issue for
everyone navigating this crucial lifeline.
Strategizing
for Resilience
To address these
seasonal challenges and strengthen NH 10’s resilience, a range of strategies
has been put into action:
Infrastructure
Upgrades: The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation
Limited (NHIDCL) and other agencies have poured resources into fortifying the
road’s infrastructure. They’ve built robust retaining walls, enhanced drainage
systems, and undertaken slope stabilization projects. These upgrades are
designed to help the road endure the relentless forces of nature.
Emergency Response Teams: When disaster
strikes, quick-response teams are ready to leap into action. Whether it's
clearing landslides or repairing flood damage, these dedicated crews work
around the clock to restore normalcy and ensure travelers can safely navigate
the highway.
Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance:
Regular monitoring of weather patterns and road conditions is key. By staying
vigilant, authorities can implement early warnings and preventative measures to
reduce disruptions caused by adverse weather, keeping the road in working order
despite the challenges.
Community Involvement: Residents also
play a vital role. Their firsthand observations help alert authorities to road
conditions and potential hazards, enabling a faster and more effective response
to emerging issues.
Together, these
efforts form a comprehensive approach to keeping NH 10 resilient and reliable,
even when nature throws its worst at it.
Conclusion
NH 10 is far
more than a mere roadway; it is a vital conduit that connects Sikkim with the
broader network of Indian roads. Its importance in driving trade, facilitating
travel, and fostering economic activity is immense. However, the seasonal
challenges it endures during the monsoon season underscore the continuous need
for stronger resilience and safety measures. By tackling these issues and
upgrading infrastructure, authorities are dedicated to ensuring that NH 10
remains a reliable and essential route year-round, maintaining its crucial link
between Sikkim and the rest of India
(vidhukayastha@gmail.com)
