Northeast Desk, 29th December: In response to recent developments, the Sikkim government is intensifying efforts to regulate travel within the state, particularly at Nathula Pass, to curb illegal entries effectively.
Notification from the Department of Tourism & Civil Aviation
A notification from the Department of Tourism & Civil Aviation emphasizes the necessity for taxi operators to possess required permits for services, especially in areas like Nathula Pass. The department notes that unauthorized entry by taxi operators poses a threat to national security and is a violation of the Restricted Area Permit/Protected Area Permit (RAP/PAP) regime.
The notification cites the Home Department’s notification no. 9/Home/2001 dated 5/2/2001, highlighting the Tourism Department’s sole authority to issue permits for visiting Nathula.
Mandatory Nathula Permits
The department mandates that concerned individuals and entities, including taxi operators and travel agencies, must obtain Nathula permits from registered travel agencies. Taxi operators and travel agencies are responsible for obtaining prior permits from the Tourism Department. Tourists are advised to request a copy of the Nathula Permit with an authorized signature from the respective travel agencies.
Education and Awareness Initiatives
The Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation in Gyalshing has been actively engaged in educating taxi drivers about the importance of adhering to these regulations and the correct procedure for obtaining required permits.
Driving Personal Vehicles in North Sikkim
For those planning to drive personal vehicles in North Sikkim, there are no restrictions, provided the appropriate permits are secured. Permits can be acquired from various locations, including Gangtok for all areas, Rongli for East Sikkim, and Mangan for North Sikkim.
Inner Line Permit (ILP) Requirement
Visitors to Sikkim, including Indian nationals, must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter the region. Specific destinations like Nathula Pass and Lachung also require permits, which can be arranged through local travel agents or some hotels offering travel agent services. A photo ID is part of the application process.
Enforcement Against Unauthorized Taxi Operators
The government’s decision to enforce strict actions against taxi operators without proper permits underscores the importance of compliance with local laws and regulations. This measure aims to ensure a safe and regulated travel environment for both residents and visitors in the picturesque state of Sikkim.
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