DARJEELING, Aug. 16, 2025: Darjeeling Member of Parliament Raju Bista has expressed serious concern over the deteriorating condition of National Highway-10 (NH-10) at Setijhora, warning that the road has become increasingly unsafe for commuters due to major cracks and ongoing erosion caused by the Teesta River.
During a review of the affected stretch, Bista highlighted the urgent need for immediate and long-term measures to prevent further damage to one of the most important road links connecting the hills with the plains. He noted that the rising water level of the Teesta River has significantly worsened the condition of the highway, increasing the risk of road collapse and disrupting transportation in the region.
The MP stressed that toe protection work would be essential once the river water recedes, as the base of the road remains vulnerable to erosion. He also called for extensive desilting operations to reduce pressure on the riverbank and help safeguard the highway from further deterioration.
At the same time, Bista cautioned against indiscriminate hillside cutting, pointing out that the steep vertical slope of the terrain makes such work extremely risky and could potentially trigger landslides or further instability.
Emphasising the need for a permanent solution, Bista advocated for the realignment of the highway and the construction of an elevated road section in vulnerable stretches. According to him, such infrastructure would provide greater safety and long-term sustainability while reducing the recurring damage caused by floods and erosion.
The MP also expressed concern over what he described as poor coordination among agencies involved in infrastructure development and maintenance, including the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), IRCON International Limited, and NHPC. He said a coordinated and comprehensive approach is necessary to effectively address the challenges facing NH-10.
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“It is also concerning that essential emergency services such as ambulances, water tankers, patrolling vehicles, and towing cranes are not readily available in the area. These facilities must be put in place to respond quickly during emergencies,” Bista said.
He further assured the public that he is closely monitoring the work being carried out by NHIDCL after it took over responsibility for the highway from the Public Works Department (PWD). Bista pledged to involve geologists, engineers, infrastructure experts, and, if required, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to ensure that NH-10 is upgraded to modern, world-class standards.
The highway serves as a crucial lifeline for Sikkim and the Darjeeling hills, making its restoration and long-term stability a priority for the region’s connectivity and economic activities.
