Travelers planning trips to Kalimpong and Sikkim this May should brace for disruptions, as National Highway 10 (NH10) is scheduled for intermittent closures due to road widening and maintenance work.
Closure Schedule
The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has announced that NH10 will be closed on the following dates:
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May 6 to May 9: Complete closure from 6:00 AM on May 6 to 6:00 AM on May 9 between Rabi Jhora and 29th Mile for bituminous work.
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May 9 to May 11 and May 13 to May 15: Intermittent closures for road widening work.
During these periods, restrictions will also be imposed on the movement of heavy goods vehicles.
Alternative Routes
To mitigate travel disruptions, Kalimpong District Magistrate Balasubramanian T has advised travelers to use alternative routes:
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Smaller vehicles: Panbu route.
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Mini buses: NH717A via Gorubathan to reach Siliguri.
These detours may add approximately one to two hours to the journey.
Impact on Travelers
The closures are expected to affect tourists and daily commuters, leading to longer travel times and potential fare increases. Authorities recommend planning trips accordingly and staying updated on traffic advisories.
For real-time updates, travelers can refer to official channels such as the Kalimpong District administration’s announcements and local news outlets.
Stay informed and plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey during these maintenance periods.
