Raju Bista announces progress on alternative Darjeeling highways, Siliguri ring road

Darjeeling MP and BJP National Spokesperson Raju Bista has confirmed progress on key infrastructure projects that aim to ease traffic congestion and boost connectivity in the region.

In a press statement Bista said that the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has taken concrete steps following the concerns he raised in Parliament on April 2. The Ministry has appointed a consultant to prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for a new alternative highway from Darjeeling to Teesta via Lebong and Dabai Pani. This new route is expected to decongest the overburdened National Highway 55 (NH 110), which currently sees over 14,000 vehicles daily twice its intended capacity.

“I had informed Parliament that Darjeeling, one of India’s key tourist destinations, is suffering due to limited road capacity and rising traffic. We urgently need alternative highways to ensure smooth and safe travel for both residents and visitors,” Bista said.

In addition to the new highway, Bista also pressed for the construction of another route connecting Matigara to Balason, Dhotrey and Ghoom.

On the Siliguri front, the Union Government has communicated that it is awaiting concurrence from the West Bengal Government on the proposed alignment of the Siliguri Ring Road. The project is seen as vital for easing traffic in the rapidly growing commercial hub of North Bengal.

“Siliguri’s development is being held back due to chronic traffic jams and outdated infrastructure. A Ring Road will be a game-changer for trade, commerce, and daily life,” Bista said.

He expressed hope that both the central and state governments will move swiftly to implement these much-needed infrastructure projects. “These aren’t just roads; they are lifelines that will define the future of Darjeeling, Siliguri, and the broader North Bengal region,” he said.