Traffic Restrictions In Gangtok As PM Narendra Modi Begins Sikkim Visit

Vehicular movement in several parts of Sikkim’s capital was restricted on Monday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived for a two-day visit, during which he is set to unveil multiple development projects.

The Prime Minister interacted with people who gathered to greet him upon arrival. Authorities imposed traffic curbs, including the temporary closure of a key National Highway stretch between Ganju Lama Dwar and Zero Point, to ensure smooth convoy movement.

Officials said the nearly three-kilometre stretch would remain shut, advising commuters to use alternative routes. Security has been intensified across Gangtok, with coordinated efforts by multiple agencies. Normal traffic will likely resume after security clearance.

PM Modi’s visit, however, coincides with the closing ceremony of Sikkim’s 50th year of statehood celebrations.

On Tuesday, the Prime Minister will visit the Orchidarium, developed as a world-class Orchid Experience Centre.

After his visit to Orchidarium, PM Modi will attend the Golden Jubilee event at Paljor Stadium around 10 AM. He will further inaugurate, launch, and lay foundation stones for projects across sectors. These include infrastructure, healthcare, education, connectivity, tourism, and agriculture.

In healthcare, projects include a 100-bedded Ayurveda hospital at Yangang and a 30-bedded Integrated Sowa Rigpa Hospital at NIT Deorali.

Education initiatives feature the inauguration of Sikkim University’s permanent campus, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University of Excellence’s administrative block, Helen Lepcha Medical College, and Dentam Professional College, along with new schools and IT-enabled infrastructure in 160 institutions.

Connectivity projects include two steel arch bridges over the Teesta River and an upgraded road linking Birdhang to Namchi.

In the power sector, the transmission and distribution network in Gangtok will be revamped.

Urban initiatives include the Jan Seva Sachivalaya, Civil Service Officers Institute, housing projects under Sikkim Urban Garib Awas Yojana, and police quarters.

Environmental projects will also begin, including a sewerage rehabilitation scheme at Singtam. The River Rani Chu pollution abatement initiative will also begin as well.

Tourism infrastructure upgrades include the redevelopment of the Ridge Precinct, facilities for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and eco-tourism projects.

The visit, however, highlights the Centre’s focus on inclusive and sustainable development in the Northeast.

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