BRO Restores Vehicular Connectivity to Indo-China Border Along Lachen Valley

BRO Restores Vehicular Connectivity to Indo-China Border Along Lachen Valley

In a significant move to restoring connectivity in Sikkim, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has restored the connectivity to Indo-China border along the Lachen Valley. This move follows a devastating crisis that began on October 4, 2023, when flash floods triggered by the bursting of Lhonak Lake wreaked havoc along the Teesta River. The floods destroyed sixteen bridges, including six critical ones in Lachen Valley, and swept away approximately 20-25 kilometers of road infrastructure, severing vital communication lines to the China border.

In response, the BRO coordinated with the Indian Army to construct multiple bailey bridges over the Teesta River at key locations such as Sanklang, Chungthang, and Zeema. By April 8, 2024, they successfully restored vehicular connectivity to North Sikkim via traditional routes after completing about five kilometers of formation cutting through challenging rocky terrain.

However, the situation took another turn on May 29 when Cyclone Remal brought unprecedented rainfall to North Sikkim. This caused flash floods in the Lachen Chu, leading to the collapse of the newly built bailey bridge at Zeema and damaging under-construction suspension bridges. Once again, critical communication lines to the border were disrupted.

Under Project Swastik, the BRO quickly mobilized resources to address this setback. Construction of a new bailey bridge at Zeema began on August 24, and remarkably, the launching of the bridge was completed in less than a month.

This new bridge is crucial not only for the logistical needs of local communities but also for the armed forces stationed in the region. Its completion will facilitate the movement of supplies and personnel toward the China border.

Additionally, restoring this vital infrastructure is expected to boost tourism in North Sikkim, particularly by providing access to Gurdongmarg Lake, a popular tourist destination that had been cut off since the previous October. The restoration efforts underscore the BRO’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and resilience in this remote Himalayan region.

Also read: Sikkim Govt Hikes Forest Produce Royalties by over 33%, Move Might Impact Trekking Business

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