Road to Recovery

The recent decision to upgrade the Sevoke-Rangpo stretch of NH-10 brings hope for stronger connectivity between Sikkim and West Bengal, but it underscores a more pressing concern within Sikkim itself: the deplorable condition of the state’s internal roads. Despite Sikkim’s position as a coveted tourist destination, its road network—from Gangtok’s busy arterial roads to the scenic, yet treacherous paths leading to North Sikkim—remains in a state of neglect. This chronic issue is no longer just an inconvenience; it’s a barrier to economic growth, a threat to local livelihoods, and a significant deterrent to Sikkim’s tourism sector.

Gangtok, as the capital and gateway to Sikkim, should ideally showcase well-maintained, functional roads that reflect the state’s commitment to development. Instead, it is marred by arterial roads filled with potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate drainage, creating endless bottlenecks and dangerous conditions. Poorly maintained roads also erode the quality of life for residents, delay essential services, and add to the frustrations of an already challenging mountainous commute. Such conditions highlight a glaring oversight in urban infrastructure management, revealing a lack of prioritization and commitment from local authorities.

The situation is even more concerning for North Sikkim, an area now plagued by disrupted connectivity. With connectivity to North Sikkim perpetually compromised, tourists often abandon plans to visit, leading to a steady decline in tourism revenue. This is not just a blow to the state’s economy but a direct hit to the livelihoods of thousands who depend on tourism for their income. Hotel owners, taxi drivers, and local businesses all suffer due to a failure to address basic infrastructural needs.

The tourism industry, which constitutes a vital part of Sikkim’s economy, is particularly vulnerable to these infrastructural failures. With the rapid growth of adventure tourism globally, Sikkim has the potential to attract a steady influx of tourists. Yet, bad roads are deterring visitors and pushing them toward other destinations where accessibility is reliable. This recurring pattern of lost opportunities calls for a comprehensive rethink by the Sikkim government. Maintaining, repairing, and expanding the road network—especially in tourism-dependent areas—should be seen as an investment in Sikkim’s economic future.

Beyond tourism, reliable infrastructure is fundamental for development in all sectors. Farmers and small business owners rely on roadways to transport goods to markets within and outside the state. Bad roads raise costs, cause delays, and spoil produce, further pushing Sikkim’s local economy into a corner. Improved state roads would empower local businesses, enhance trade, and ensure faster access to education and healthcare, forming the backbone of sustainable development.

It is essential that the Sikkim government now moves beyond rhetoric and acts decisively. Adequate budget allocations, routine maintenance schedules, and timely responses to natural disasters must become standard practices if the state is to advance. The responsibility of infrastructure improvement lies not only with policymakers but also with citizens who must hold their government accountable for providing basic, dependable infrastructure.