Deb outlines steps to ease traffic woes in Siliguri

Darjeeling: State Tourism minister Gautam Deb has stressed on the need for revamping the existing road network of Siliguri. He also suggested steps to ease traffic snarls, especially in the Darjeeling More area.

"Siliguri is the most important city in West Bengal after Kolkata. It is the gateway to the east. Population, tourists and traffic is increasing by the day. Hence we have to adopt certain measures to ease traffic woes," said Deb.

Stating that the existing road network should

be revamped, he said: "We have to come up with a comprehensive underground system which will incorporate electricity, telecom and sewage system."

Streamlining of traffic including routes for electric rickshaws (totos) and long-distance buses to commute outside the city also came up.

"The most vulnerable area is Darjeeling More on the National Highway. Despite repeated requests the Union Government has shown no interest in resolving the

problem. The PWD is making a Detailed Project Report

for four lanes," stated the minister.

"Meanwhile, I have written to the PWD and to the Chief Minister, requesting that two Bailey bridges be constructed in this area for the time being. This will help resolve around 40% of the traffic congestion in this area," he added.

A diversion is also being planned to bypass the Darjeeling More for traffic plying between the Darjeeling Hills and Siliguri.