National Highway 10, the artery that keeps Sikkim alive, has been plagued by landslides that close the road for weeks at a stretch. The new plan, unveiled by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, will tackle these recurrent blockages head‑on.
The ₹993.64‑crore package will see the Rangpo‑Ranipool stretch turned into a two‑lane highway with paved shoulders, and will incorporate tunnels, viaducts, bridges and cut‑and‑cover sections. Slope‑protection measures—rockfall barriers, retaining walls and drainage systems—will be installed to keep the road dry and stable during monsoon.
Beyond keeping traffic moving, the upgrade is framed as a strategic boost: a more reliable route for defence personnel and supplies to the Indo‑China border, and a smoother corridor for tourism, horticulture and the transport of essential goods. “It will strengthen our national security and Sikkim’s socio‑economic fabric,” Gadkari said.
Sikkim’s political leaders have echoed the sentiment. Lok Sabha MP Raju Bista welcomed the announcement, stressing that faster, safer travel will help local tea growers reach markets in time. Indra Hang Subba thanked the minister for turning a lifeline into a resilient highway.
Construction will now move into the implementation phase. Contractors will be selected in the coming months, and the project is expected to be completed once all approvals and tenders are in place.