Fresh landslides raise doubts over reopening of NH 10

Darjeeling,: Even as the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) order for the closure of NH 10 is set to end by Friday evening, the chances of the highway reopening on time appear slim due to fresh landslides along the route over the past few days.

NHIDCL had earlier closed NH 10 to all vehicular traffic from the night of August 12 till 6 pm on August 15, citing safety concerns.

On Thursday afternoon, fresh landslides were reported at Selfie Dara, where debris and boulders fell onto the highway. Road clearance work is currently underway. During the incident, an unidentified man fell into the Teesta River while attempting to cross the landslide zone. A joint rescue operation involving the police, NHIDCL officials, and local residents was launched, and the injured individual was promptly taken to Rambi Hospital for treatment.

Meanwhile, hill-cutting work is ongoing at the 29th Mile area on NH 10, where a portion of the highway had collapsed nearly five days ago. Sources indicate that it may take more time to restore traffic through that stretch, especially with continuous rainfall hampering progress.

On Wednesday night, the route from Kalimpong and Sikkim to Darjeeling via Teesta Bazaar was also closed temporarily as the Teesta River overflowed onto the road. Police issued advisories urging people to remain cautious, particularly along low-lying stretches near the river. However, with the water level receding, the road to Darjeeling has since been reopened.

At present, commuters are using alternative routes, including Lava and NH 717A, to travel in and out of the region.