NH-10 Closure: Six-Day Travel Disruption Begins May 9, 2025

The Sevoke–Rangpo stretch of National Highway-10 (NH-10), a crucial route connecting Sikkim and Kalimpong with Siliguri, will undergo intermittent closures for six days starting from May 9 to May 11 and again from May 13 to May 15. These restrictions are being implemented to carry out essential road maintenance, widening, and landslide prevention work ahead of the monsoon season. Authorities have announced that vehicular movement will be suspended multiple times a day in specified time blocks, allowing only limited passage between closure intervals.

According to the official notification, the daily closure windows will be from 5 AM to 7 AM, 8 AM to 10 AM, 11 AM to 1 PM, 2 PM to 4 PM, and 5 PM to 7 PM. During these time slots, traffic on NH-10 will be completely halted. Travelers are strongly advised to plan their journeys either before 5 AM or after 7 PM to avoid being caught in the closure periods. The closure is expected to impact both local commuters and tourists traveling to and from Gangtok, Rangpo, Kalimpong, and adjoining areas.

For small vehicles like cars and SUVs, the recommended alternate route is via Mongpong, Lava, Algarah, and Kalimpong, continuing to Rangpo through the Panbu stretch. This route, while adding nearly an hour to the travel time, bypasses the restricted areas and remains accessible throughout the day. However, drivers should note that the Panbu road is steep and narrow, making it suitable only for confident and experienced drivers.

Heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses are entirely barred from NH-10 on the affected days and must instead use the alternative route through Gorubathan, Damdim, Kalimpong, and Rangpo via NH717A. This detour is broader and more appropriate for large vehicles but may increase travel time by about two hours. Tourists using taxis or shared cabs must ensure that their transport providers are aware of and willing to follow the designated alternate routes. Departing in the early morning or after evening hours is advised to minimize delays. Public transport users should check with the Sikkim Nationalised Transport or private bus operators about possible diversions and revised schedules. Passengers should be prepared for delays of up to two to three hours due to detours.

This roadwork initiative is being managed by several key agencies, including the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), IRCON International, the Sikkim Roads & Bridges Department, and the West Bengal Public Works Department. These organizations have issued advisories urging the public to cooperate and avoid unnecessary travel during closure hours.

Travelers are advised to stay updated with official announcements and contact the Sikkim Roads & Bridges Department at +91 3592 202435, the Sikkim Tourism Helpline at +91 3592 203960, or the Sikkim Nationalised Transport at +91 3592 203820 for assistance. Authorities emphasize that proper planning and awareness are essential to ensuring a smooth and safe journey during the temporary disruption on NH-10.