The TDR Extra Wide Bailey Bridge at Ritchu Nallah on the Mangan–Chungthang route was inaugurated on Friday by Minister and area MLA Samdup Lepcha, coinciding with the 79th Independence Day.

The bridge, opened for light vehicles, restores a key road link to Chungthang while permanent infrastructure works, including retaining walls, drainage systems and surfacing, are underway. Authorities said the route has been opened due to its strategic importance and following requests from the public.

The inauguration was attended by Chairperson, Sikkim Welfare Commission, Nim Tshering Lepcha; Chairperson, Forest and Environment Department, Pema Wongay Lachungpa; Chairperson, State Medicinal Plants Board, Sonam Gyatso Lachenpa; SDM Mangan, Rinchen Dorjee Bhutia; OSD to HCM (Lachen–Mangan), Tshering Wangyal Bhutia; along with Panchayat members, officials from various departments and local residents.