The progress of several critical road and bridge infrastructure projects across Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts was reviewed at a high-level meeting attended by Darjeeling MP Raju Bista and senior state government officials
PWD Principal Secretary Antara Acharya, representatives of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) were also present.
In the meeting, a detailed assessment of ongoing projects was carried out with particular focus on the reconstruction of the Dudhey Bridge, which was destroyed in the devastating landslide in October 2025. Officials informed that the permanent bridge is targeted for completion by February 2027.
After the temporary bridge was washed away amid recent heavy rainfall, officials have sought the help of the Indian Army for the construction of a bailey bridge, which is expected to be completed within the next 15 days.
The proposed transfer of the Rohini–Kurseong Road from the GTA to the Public Works Department (PWD) was also discussed. It was stated that the move would help ensure better maintenance and management of the strategically important road, which serves as a key link for transportation, tourism and emergency services.
Measures aimed at easing traffic congestion in Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Kurseong were also reviewed.
Several alternative road projects, including the proposed Siliguri Ring Road, an alternative route to Kalimpong, widening of roads in Sonada, development of the Old Military Road from Chimney to Ghoom, and the proposed Kurseong–Siliguri road via Ambotia and Gammon Bridge, were discussed.
Officials further informed that surveys would be undertaken jointly by the district administrations, GTA and PWD authorities to expedite projects proposed under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) and improve regional connectivity across North Bengal.