Gangtok, Jun 6: Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Ajay Tamta, visited Sikkim to review the progress of key infrastructure and development projects across the State. Travelling through NH-10 and NH-510, the Minister assessed ongoing works and inspected public facilities in Gyalshing District, including the Ayush Hospital and Krishi Vigyan Kendra.

He also examined the implementation of flagship schemes such as Jal Jeevan Mission, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), alongside road and highway development initiatives.

During the review, Tamta evaluated major highway projects planned for Sikkim, including the Rhenock–Rongli Road Project with an estimated cost of ₹595 crore, NH-10 improvement works spanning 25.75 km at ₹1,018 crore, and proposed bypasses at Rangpo–Rorathang and Melli–Singtam aimed at easing traffic congestion and enhancing safety. He directed officials to expedite completion of ongoing and upcoming projects.

The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has already completed six projects covering 58 km with investments of ₹1,323 crore, while seven more projects spanning 147 km worth ₹3,749 crore are under implementation.

The Ministry’s Road Wing has delivered 117 km of completed projects at ₹1,202 crore, with 50 km under construction and 58 km of new works planned at ₹2,575 crore. The Minister also reviewed the Gangtok Bypass and instructed its completion by November 2026. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has constructed 59 km of the strategic Gangtok–Sherathang–Nathu La road (NH-310), vital for border connectivity.

Tamta directed the creation of lay byes for tourist vehicles and emphasized landslide mitigation measures. BRO is also implementing 17 projects across NH-310 and NH-310 AG, covering 241 km.

Reaffirming the Government of India’s commitment, Shri Tamta stated that strengthening road infrastructure in Sikkim is crucial for economic growth, trade, accessibility to remote areas, and unlocking the State’s tourism potential.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, through NHIDCL and associated agencies, continues to work towards building safe, efficient, and resilient road networks to support the socio-economic development of Sikkim.