High-Level Indo-Bhutanese Delegation Conducts Survey for Alternative Route at Jaigaon-Phuentsholing Border
Jaigaon, February 10: In a significant development aimed at addressing long-standing traffic congestion issues at the Indo-Bhutan border, a high-level diplomatic and bureaucratic delegation from India and Bhutan conducted a site visit at the Toorsa riverside in Jaigaon today. The visit focused on assessing the feasibility of an alternative route that could divert heavy vehicular movement away from the city center and improve cross-border trade efficiency.
The delegation included several key officials from both nations. Among them were the Ambassador of India to Bhutan, the Consul General of India in Phuentsholing, the Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Employment (Royal Government of Bhutan), the Director of Law & Order (RGoB), the Dzongdag of Chhukha, the Immigration Regional Director (Phuentsholing), officials from the Phuentsholing Dungkhag Administration, the DIG of SSB, the SSB Commandant, the SSP of Chhukha, and representatives from the Alipurduar district administration.
Addressing a Decades-Old Traffic Issue
Jaigaon, a key border town in the Alipurduar district of West Bengal, has long been plagued by severe traffic congestion due to heavy vehicular movement, especially on NS Road, MG Road, and Link Roads. Large transport trucks carrying goods, boulders, and import-export materials frequently pass through these narrow roads, leading to bottlenecks, potholes, hit-and-run incidents, and daily commuter struggles. Despite repeated appeals from local residents and businesses, no viable long-term solution has been effectively implemented—until now.
An Alternative Route for Traffic Decongestion
The concept of an alternative route was first reported by CONNECTING NATIONS on May 30, 2024. The proposed route involves utilizing the Toorsa (Amochu) riverbed to create a dedicated passage for heavy vehicles, thereby reducing congestion in the main city area. This route is expected to run from Mukti Dham in Jaigaon to Bada Mechia Busty and Dalsingpara, bypassing densely populated regions and allowing smoother movement of goods between India and Bhutan.
On the Bhutanese side, development along the Toorsa River belt has been progressing rapidly, with plans for a new Phuentsholing Township. However, the Indian side, particularly Jaigaon, has lagged in infrastructural improvements. Officials and stakeholders believe that the proposed alternative route could bridge this gap, facilitating both economic growth and better urban planning.
Potential Benefits and Challenges
The new route, if successfully implemented, could bring multiple benefits, including:
- Reduced Traffic Congestion: Diverting heavy trucks away from central Jaigaon and Phuentsholing.
- Improved Road Safety: Fewer accidents and better pedestrian movement.
- Economic Opportunities: The emergence of new businesses such as garages, eateries, and trade hubs along the route.
However, concerns remain about potential environmental challenges and resistance from local communities near the proposed route. Authorities stress the need for clear communication with residents to dispel misinformation and ensure cooperation in the planning and execution stages.
Way Forward
With today’s visit, the alternative route proposal has gained significant momentum. Both Indian and Bhutanese officials are expected to conduct further feasibility studies and stakeholder discussions before moving forward with implementation.
For now, residents of Jaigaon and Phuentsholing remain hopeful that this long-overdue project will soon turn into reality, bringing much-needed relief from traffic woes and boosting bilateral trade efficiency.
***
