Rangpo–Rorathang Road in Dilapidated Condition, Locals and Commuters Facing Hardship

The condition of the road connecting Rangpo to Rorathang has become extremely poor. Not only during the monsoon season, but even in the dry months, commuters and local residents are facing serious difficulties. In particular, along the nearly 12-kilometer stretch from Rangpo to Rorathang, three sections of the road have deteriorated severely, resembling large pothole-ridden patches. In the Dui Mile Bhusmey area, the road has sunk after the land was eroded by a nearby stream, further worsening the situation. Although the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is carrying out repair works, the problem has not been resolved on a long-term basis. Apart from being narrow, the road generates excessive dust, which, according to locals, has adversely affected their health and caused serious damage to agricultural crops. In some places, the road surface has subsided and formed steep inclines, making it difficult for vehicles to climb. The steel bridge constructed over the near by Kumrek Dikling Khola was damaged by last year’s floods. At present, only small vehicles are permitted to cross the bridge. Heavy goods vehicles are compelled to pass through the stream as an alternative route. Since only one vehicle is allowed to cross the steel bridge at a time, long traffic jams frequently occur. On Wednesday, while widening the road and extracting soil from the stream, damage was reportedly caused to local drinking water pipelines, increasing the risk of the stream being blocked. This led to a brief dispute between local residents and the BRO. This road serves as a vital link connecting Rangpo, Rorathang, Rhenock, Rongli, Zaluk (Silk Route), Nathula, and the neighboring region of Kalimpong. It is considered the backbone of the local tourism industry. From a security perspective as well, the route is important, as it is regularly used by Army vehicles. According to sources, the poor condition of the road has disrupted transportation for local industries and factories, negatively impacting the regional economy. Although it has been stated that the responsibility for the road would be handed over to NHIDCL, sources claim that even after several years, the process has not moved forward due to the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) still being pending. Announcements regarding the construction of an alternative route and road widening through back-cutting have also not been implemented. While the state government is promoting tourism in the region, the continued dilapidated condition of the main road used by tourists has become a matter of serious concern.