The new road alignment passes through the districts of Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong, spanning Oodlabari, Bagrakote, Chunabhati, Chuikhim, Lolegaon, Lava, Algarah, Pedong, and Aritar before reaching Nathu La via Gangtok. Covering a distance of approximately 150 km, this route offers a more direct and convenient path for travelers. The tourism industry in places like Chuikhim, Chunabhati, Lolegaon, and Lava is eagerly anticipating an increase in tourist footfall once the road becomes operational, as currently, only Lava receives tourists throughout the year.
Once the road is commissioned, it will enhance connectivity and enable people to travel to Gangtok and Nathu La more swiftly and affordably. This improved accessibility is expected to contribute to the socio-economic development of the region. Furthermore, the road will reduce the distance to Gangtok by 50 km and ensure all-weather accessibility, mitigating the issues associated with the existing NH-10, known as the 'Lifeline of Sikkim,' which is prone to landslides and frequently closes, particularly during the monsoon season.
