KalimNews, June 2, 2025, Kalimpong : In a critical update, the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL) has announced that due to safety concerns arising from ongoing emergency repair work and potential congestion caused by vehicles, traffic movement will be intermittently disrupted on National Highway 10. This will specifically impact the section affected by the recent rise in water levels of the Teesta River on May 31, 2025.
The affected stretch of NH 10 includes critical points near Suntaley (km 14.45), Likhubhir (km 26 to 28), Melli (km 33 to 34), and a section near km 49.98. As a result, the highway will be fully closed to all classes of vehicles on June 2 and 3, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM each day.
During these two days, only vehicles associated with the NHIDCL, IRCON, NHPC, and emergency services (such as fire trucks, ambulances, and disaster management vehicles) will be allowed to pass through the work zones on a case-by-case basis. Additionally, only commercial vehicles with a laden weight of up to 14.5 metric tons will be permitted to travel along the highway starting June 2, 2025, until further notice. This temporary restriction aims to ensure the safety of vehicles traveling on this stretch of the national highway, which has been severely impacted by natural calamities.
The highway, a lifeline for Sikkim and the bordering areas of West Bengal, has suffered extensive damage due to heavy rainfall over the past three to four days. In particular, the northern Sikkim region has been devastated by landslides, making repairs to NH 10 crucial for the region’s connectivity. The situation has been further exacerbated by the rising Teesta River, which has led to flash floods. On May 31, intense rainfall and floods caused significant damage to various parts of the highway, including sections near Melli and Likhuveer, where the road has been completely washed away in certain areas.
As a result, the Kalimpong district administration has confirmed the urgent need for repairs. The National Highway 10, which connects West Bengal and Sikkim, has been temporarily shut down to facilitate these repairs. The highway will remain closed on Monday and Tuesday (June 2-3) between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM. During this period, vehicles associated with repair works, as well as emergency service vehicles, will be granted special access.
This closure is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and longevity of the highway, which has been severely impacted by the natural disasters. Motorists are urged to plan their travel accordingly and seek alternate routes where possible. The authorities have committed to updating the public on any further developments.
The continued rainfall and the precarious condition of the road highlight the need for immediate action to restore the highway and prevent further damage. As the situation unfolds, residents and travelers are advised to stay informed and exercise caution when using alternative routes.
About the Author
