DARJEELING, Aug. 16, 2025: Darjeeling MP Raju Bista has expressed serious concern over the deteriorating condition of National Highway-10 at Setijhora, where major cracks have rendered the road unsafe for commuters.
Bista highlighted that the Teesta river’s rising water level has worsened the situation, stressing the urgent need for toe protection work once the water recedes. He also underlined the importance of desilting to prevent further damage, while noting that the vertical slope of the hillside makes cutting work highly risky.
Calling for a long-term solution, Bista said the road must be realigned and an elevated stretch constructed to ensure safety and sustainability. He pointed to poor coordination between agencies such as NHIDCL, IRCON and NHPC as a key reason for delays and urged for a joint, long-term approach to address the issue effectively.
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“It is also concerning that basic emergency services like ambulances, water tankers, patrolling vehicles and towing cranes are not available in the area. These must be in place to handle any crisis,” he added.
Bista further assured that he is closely monitoring NHIDCL’s work after it took over from PWD. He pledged to bring in experts, geologists, engineers, and even involve the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to ensure that NH-10 is upgraded to world-class standards.
