Northeast Desk, 20th October: Rajya Sabha MP Hishey Lachungpa has written a letter to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 20, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate action to safeguard border villages and national defense infrastructure in the aftermath of the recent Glacial Lhonak Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in North Sikkim. The letter outlines several critical concerns.
MP Lachungpa underscores the necessity for prompt anti-erosion efforts to protect and strengthen the NH road extending from Zeema to Chaten along the Teesta River. This road serves as a vital link for Lachen Village, the Army Brigade, ITBP Camp, and Defence Transit Camp. Without protective measures, there is a looming threat that the entire hillside could collapse into the Teesta River during the upcoming monsoon season.
The present National Highway in the region has suffered severe damage and is currently inaccessible. Therefore, the MP suggests the restoration of the old, abandoned North Sikkim Highway Road, stretching from Rangma Army and GREF Camp to Munsithang.
To address the significant road connectivity issues, MP Lachungpa emphasizes the importance of installing missing 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 also disrupted access to the Indian Defense Armoury located in the region.
The MP further calls for the construction of an all-weather and robust NH10 from Sevoke to Rangpo, Sikkim, citing multiple connectivity issues faced by the region’s residents and defense personnel.
In his letter, MP Lachungpa highlights the critical role these actions play in ensuring national security and facilitating the efficient operation of Indian defense forces and civilian life in the region.
