The
recent decision to upgrade the Sevoke-Rangpo stretch of NH-10 brings hope for
stronger connectivity between Sikkim and West Bengal, but it underscores a more
pressing concern within Sikkim itself: the deplorable condition of the state’s
internal roads. Despite Sikkim’s position as a coveted tourist destination, its
road network—from Gangtok’s busy arterial roads to the scenic, yet treacherous
paths leading to North Sikkim—remains in a state of neglect. This chronic issue
is no longer just an inconvenience; it’s a barrier to economic growth, a threat
to local livelihoods, and a significant deterrent to Sikkim’s tourism sector.
Gangtok,
as the capital and gateway to Sikkim, should ideally showcase well-maintained,
functional roads that reflect the state’s commitment to development. Instead,
it is marred by arterial roads filled with potholes, uneven surfaces, and
inadequate drainage, creating endless bottlenecks and dangerous conditions.
Poorly maintained roads also erode the quality of life for residents, delay
essential services, and add to the frustrations of an already challenging
mountainous commute. Such conditions highlight a glaring oversight in urban
infrastructure management, revealing a lack of prioritization and commitment
from local authorities.
The
situation is even more concerning for North Sikkim, an area now plagued by
disrupted connectivity. With connectivity to North Sikkim perpetually
compromised, tourists often abandon plans to visit, leading to a steady decline
in tourism revenue. This is not just a blow to the state’s economy but a direct
hit to the livelihoods of thousands who depend on tourism for their income.
Hotel owners, taxi drivers, and local businesses all suffer due to a failure to
address basic infrastructural needs.
The
tourism industry, which constitutes a vital part of Sikkim’s economy, is
particularly vulnerable to these infrastructural failures. With the rapid
growth of adventure tourism globally, Sikkim has the potential to attract a
steady influx of tourists. Yet, bad roads are deterring visitors and pushing
them toward other destinations where accessibility is reliable. This recurring
pattern of lost opportunities calls for a comprehensive rethink by the Sikkim
government. Maintaining, repairing, and expanding the road network—especially
in tourism-dependent areas—should be seen as an investment in Sikkim’s economic
future.
Beyond
tourism, reliable infrastructure is fundamental for development in all sectors.
Farmers and small business owners rely on roadways to transport goods to
markets within and outside the state. Bad roads raise costs, cause delays, and
spoil produce, further pushing Sikkim’s local economy into a corner. Improved
state roads would empower local businesses, enhance trade, and ensure faster
access to education and healthcare, forming the backbone of sustainable
development.
It
is essential that the Sikkim government now moves beyond rhetoric and acts
decisively. Adequate budget allocations, routine maintenance schedules, and
timely responses to natural disasters must become standard practices if the
state is to advance. The responsibility of infrastructure improvement lies not
only with policymakers but also with citizens who must hold their government
accountable for providing basic, dependable infrastructure.
