Darjeeling Civic body threatens to stop repairs on NH 55

Darjeeling Municipality is unhappy with the non-corporation of the National Highway Division IX. The Civic Chairman, Pasang Bhutia has informed that the municipality is repairing National Highway 55, which is one of the main thoroughfares of the townMaintenance of national highway is the responsibility of NHD IX. But they are not taking necessary measures for the upkeep of the road. The deplorable condition of the road within the town has become a serious problem for the motorists and the pedestrians. They are suffering from dust and traffic logjams. The Municipality fears that with building of a new tarmac, there will be problem in the maintenance of the water pipeline network in the future.

Mr. C.K.Das, Executive Engineer, NH Div IX, refuted these allegations. According to him a work order will be passed soon after which work will proceed. He also added that before starting the work NHAI will talk to the Municipality about this issue. A sum of Rs. 40 lakhs were sanctioned by the State Government under the head of 'Calamity Expenditure' for the repair of a portion of the road which is inside the town.

Mr. Das admitted that the main impediment for them is the lack of fund. They have sent many proposals to the NHAI, but only a few have been approved. The 80 km. stretch from Tindharia is in a very poor state. Poor drainage system and mass encroachments are the main reasons for this. The Government has also complicated the problem by taking the decision not to appoint any more road mazdoors for this job.

The Sikkim State Archives Department has now decided to set up a new wicker gate near the tourist lodge to protect the lake. Khechepalri is not only a tourist spot but also a pilgrimage site for many. This has added to the problem as many devotees throw puja offerings into the lake much of which is not decomposable. The department has also put up signboards to make the people aware about saving this lake.

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