Sikkim: Kalimpong is set to witness new regulations concerning the movement of heavy vehicles within the district, as District Magistrate Balasubramanian T has issued a fresh order imposing restrictions.
This decision follows a communication received from the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), which highlighted ongoing issues and potential threats to road safety arising from heavy vehicle traffic along National Highway 10.
The restrictions are slated to come into force tomorrow, April 9, 2025, and will remain in effect until further notice from the district administration. The primary objective of this order is to prioritize the safety and security of the general public while also aiming to streamline traffic flow within the region during this period of concern.
As per the issued order, a complete prohibition on the movement of all heavy vehicles exceeding a weight of six tonnes will be enforced on two key internal routes within the Kalimpong district. These restricted routes include the stretch from Gorubathan Pandara to Reshi, which passes through Lava, Algarah, and Pedong, as well as the route connecting Gorubathan Pandara to Kalimpong via Lava and Algarah.
These restrictions are expected to impact vehicles that regularly utilize these internal roads for various purposes, notably those involved in the transportation of goods and essential supplies between different localities within the Kalimpong district.
However, a degree of flexibility has been introduced for smaller heavy vehicles, specifically those weighing up to six tonnes and destined for Kalimpong town itself. These vehicles will be permitted to travel between Algarah and Kalimpong, but only during the night hours, specifically from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM. It is important to note that vehicles intending to travel to any destination other than Kalimpong town will not be allowed to use this particular route, even during the specified night hours.
The district administration has formally directed the police department, particularly the traffic wing, to ensure strict adherence to these newly implemented restrictions. To facilitate this, police personnel will establish control points at strategic locations such as Pandara, Gorubathan, and the district borders. These checkpoints will serve to guide traffic and intercept vehicles as necessary to enforce the order.
Furthermore, the order grants authority to police officers to implement temporary restrictions or diversions for all categories of vehicles on a case-by-case basis, should the need arise. Any such actions will be undertaken only after due consultation with the District Magistrate, ensuring that the safety and well-being of the public remain the paramount consideration in all traffic management decisions.
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