Nitin Gadkari ordered to hand over the management of NH 10 to central agency NHIDCL, know the reason

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has directed to immediately transfer the portion of NH10 from Rangpo to Sevoke to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). The move resolves an important issue raised before the central government by Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golai.

Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba met Gadkari in New Delhi on August 8 and submitted a memorandum requesting to transfer the maintenance of NH10 from the Public Works Department (PWD) of West Bengal to a central agency under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). During the meeting, Gadkari directed the ministry officials to expedite the transfer of the stretch from Rangpo to Sevoke, which has been a matter of concern due to frequent landslides and road collapses.

"The Union minister assured us that the transfer of NH10 to NHIDCL will be completed soon," Subba said. Subba thanked Gadkari for his prompt action. Subba also emphasized the need for new roadworks and tunnels in vulnerable stretches of NH10, especially after the 2023 floods, to make the highway more resilient to climate change and ensure uninterrupted operations.

Highlighting the importance of NH10, Subba said, "NH10 is of immense importance to both the people of Sikkim and national security. Promoting and maintaining this route will improve the quality of life of the residents of Sikkim and ensure strategic preparedness."

NH10 is the main route connecting Sikkim with Siliguri and the rest of India. While the Gangtok to Rangpo section is already under the management of NHIDCL, the Rangpo to Sevoke section is currently managed by the PWD of West Bengal. The section has faced several challenges since the onset of monsoon in June, with multiple landslides blocking Sikkim's only highway connection for weeks.

"The transfer of NH10 to NHIDCL will provide much-needed relief to the people of Sikkim, who are completely dependent on this highway," Subba said. He lauded the proactive role played by Chief Minister Tamang-Golai in advocating for this change.

Subba also made it clear that the demand for the transfer should not be seen as a conflict between the Sikkim and West Bengal governments. "Some people may see it as a conflict with the West Bengal government, but this view is wrong. NH10 is an interstate route that benefits both Sikkim and Bengal. It is a win-win situation for both governments," he said.

Gadkari assured that necessary strengthening and re-alignment of NH10 will be carried out after the highway is completely transferred to NHIDCL.