Mukesh Sharma

Kalimpong,20th Oct 

Jordhunga, which falls under Todey-Tangta gram panchayat under Gorkha Territorial Administration (GTA) 45 constituency and connects to Bindu, which is a popular tourist spot and which lies along the Indo- Bhutan border, is completely cut off from the rest of the state owing to collapse of the existing kuccha (earthen) roadway a week back.The roadway had been in deplorable condition for long before it collapsed.

The affected residents have alleged that neither he GTA Sabhasad, nor the district administration fficials have visited he area.

Situated merely a 100 etres from the Indo-Bhutan border, Jordhunga is one of the most deprived villages in Darjeeling region, with no access to proper roads.

The kaccha road was he only means by which the locals could connect to the outside world.

Local residents say that in view of the administration’s characterist apathy, it is unlikely that this kaccha road will be repaired any time in the near future.

In desperation, the villagers have resorted to cutting away the side of a steep hill, so that they can travel by foot from one side to the other.School-going children, elderly people and pregnant oman are being forced to use this makeshift path, risking heir lives given the condition of the temporary route.
 

A committee of local residents has submitted a memorandum for immediate repair of the footpath o the Darjeeling district magistrate, BDO Gorubathan, Darjeeling MP SS Ahluwaliya and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Meanwhile, when the BDO, Gorbuthan, Mr BN Mondal was contacted, he said: “The footpath is in a very vulnerable condition. An inspection team was sent to assess the condition and has submitted a report. Approval from the higher authorities is needed to start a new project.”

When GTASabhasad Dr Lobsang Lama was contacted for his comments on the issue, he replied that due to his health issues he has been unable to visit the place but he has sent the party secretary to gather information, which will be submitted to the GTA for necessary action.