DARJEELING,: Traffic on NH 110 (formerly NH 55) has been suspended due to cracks and sinking at Paglajhora, about 10 km from Kurseong.
Paglajhora, situated between Ghaybari and Mahanadi, has been affected by landslides and the road is gradually collapsing and halting all vehicular movement. NH 110 is a crucial route connecting Siliguri to Darjeeling and Kurseong.
Most vehicles typically use the Rohini route, leaving NH 110 primarily for heavy vehicles like buses and trucks, which are now unable to use the road. The cracks were first observed on Friday. With the closure of this route, vehicles are being redirected via the Gayabari-Giddapahar route to Kurseong. However, there is currently no vehicular link between Ghayabari and Mahanadi.
On the other hand, the water level of the Teesta River has risen again, causing water to overflow onto Teesta road and halting vehicular movement. Only emergency vehicles are allowed to pass through this stretch, which connects Kalimpong and Sikkim to Darjeeling. A protection wall is being constructed between the river and the road. Travellers from Kalimpong are using the alternative route via Mungpoo, while those heading to Sikkim from Darjeeling are taking the Tukvar-Singla-Jorethang-Melli route.
NH 10, the main route connecting Kalimpong and Sikkim with the plains, remains closed due to ongoing repair work and fresh landslides between Chitrey and Sethi Jhora. Alternative routes via Lava, Panbu and Mungsung are being used.
In a related development, the GTA’s Tourism department has announced the temporary closure of tourist spots like Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of tourists and locals. The continuous rainfall has increased the water force in waterfalls and streams, which are the main attractions in these areas.