Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 8: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has announced approval of Rs 993.64 crore for the development of the Rangpo-Ranipool stretch of NH-10 in Sikkim.

The project aims to upgrade the corridor into a two-lane highway, with major engineering works planned to improve safety and resilience in the challenging Himalayan terrain.

According to Gadkari, the project will include the construction of tunnels, viaducts, bridges and cut-and-cover sections, along with comprehensive slope-protection measures in vulnerable areas prone to landslides and sinking.

The upgraded corridor is expected to provide safer and faster connectivity to Gangtok and other parts of Sikkim while strengthening the movement of tourists, agricultural and horticultural produce and essential goods.

Gadkari also highlighted the strategic importance of NH-10 for the movement of defence personnel and supplies, besides its role in the socio-economic development of Sikkim.

The Rangpo-Ranipool section is a crucial part of NH-10, which connects Sikkim with the rest of the country. The challenging Himalayan terrain and recurring landslides have made strengthening the corridor a major infrastructure priority.

The latest approval comes after the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited initiated procurement for the development of the stretch, with the tender documents providing for tunnels, viaducts and measures to strengthen vulnerable sections.