Joint inspection at Kali Khola Bridge ensures immediate action for repair and safety measures

In response to a public complaint from Ranka, a joint inspection was conducted at the Kali Khola Bridge under BAC Ranka, led by Area MLA Smt. Kala Rai. The inspection team included ADC/HQ, Deputy Director of DDMA Gangtok, BDO Nandok BAC, Additional Chief Engineer, Assistant Engineer, and the concerned contractor from the Roads & Bridges Department.

During the inspection, it was noted that the old bridge at Kali Khola had sustained damage due to the movement of trucks and heavy vehicles. The repair work for the old bridge is currently underway, and it is expected to take about one week to complete the repairs, making the bridge suitable for traffic again. Meanwhile, the new bridge, though not yet officially open for traffic, was decided to be used temporarily to facilitate vehicle movement.

Area MLA Kala Rai stated the need for the Roads & Bridges department to expedite the completion of the new bridge, as it has already faced delays beyond the anticipated completion date. She further directed the officials to construct a protective wall near the bridge to prevent potential landslides and slipping in the future, which could obstruct the drainage system. Additionally, she instructed the clearance of the drainage system on the Gangtok side to ensure smoother two-way vehicle movement.

In a separate incident, the Area MLA responded to a report about the severe damage caused by incessant rains last Saturday to the house of Mingma Dem Bhutia at Tathangchen. The foundation wall of her house posed a significant risk to the neighboring house of Dawa Tshering Bhutia. Area MLA Tenzing Lamtha inspected the site, and restoration work will be carried out following the standing SDRF norms. Relief will also be provided as per the standard procedures to assist the affected family.