Gangtok, Oct 20: Following the recent Glacial Lhonak Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in North Sikkim, Rajya Sabha MP Hishey Lachungpa has sent a letter to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
The letter, dated October 20, emphasizes the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of border villages and national defense infrastructure in the region. In the letter, several critical areas of concern are highlighted.
The MP underscores the urgency of anti-erosion efforts to protect the National Highway (NH) road from Zeema to Chaten, running along the Teesta River. This road is a lifeline for Lachen Village, the Army Brigade, ITBP Camp, and Defence Transit Camp. Without protective measures, there is a significant risk that the entire hillside could collapse into the Teesta River during the upcoming monsoon season.
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The existing NH in the area has sustained severe damage, rendering it inaccessible. The MP suggests the restoration of the old abandoned North Sikkim Highway Road, which stretches from Rangma Army and GREF Camp to Munsithang.
To address the issues related to road connectivity, MP Lachungpa highlights the importance of rebuilding lost bridges from Lachen to Chungthang, Chungthang to Naga Namgor, and the urgent restoration of the highway between Mangan and Singtam-Rangpo. The lack of connectivity has not only affected civilian movement but has also disrupted access for the Indian Defense Armoury located in the region.
The MP further advocates for the construction of an all-weather and robust NH10 from Sevoke to Rangpo, Sikkim. This move is seen as a solution to the multiple connectivity challenges faced by the region’s residents and defense personnel.
MP Lachungpa emphasizes the pivotal role of these actions in ensuring national security and facilitating the efficient operation of Indian defense forces and civilian life in the region.
