The Government of Sikkim has recognised that adequate and sound provision of well connected road, rail, and aviation network is an important pre-condition for the social and economic development of the State. Besides, an efficient telecom and power infrastructure is necessary to improve the quality of life of the people. Hence, the Government has been undertaking several infrastructural projects in order to attract investment and ensure overall welfare of the State.

Roadways

Sikkim has a wide network of roads. The National Highway 31A links Siliguri to Gangtok through an all-weather metalled road running parallel to river Teesta. Almost all the districts and industrial hubs of the State are well connected by roads and they are nearer to Siliguri than to other parts of Sikkim. Besides, a branch of the highway from Melli connects western Sikkim. Towns in southern and western Sikkim are connected to the northern West Bengal hill stations of Kalimpong and Darjeeling. The four wheel drives are the most popular means of transport in the State, as they can navigate rocky slopes. Also, there are mini-buses linking smaller towns to the State and district headquarters.

Railways

The closest railway stations are Siliguri (113 km) and New Jalpaiguri (125 Km) connecting Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, Lucknow and other important cities. Several proposals are underway for constructing a railway link between Siliguri and Nathula.

Aviation

There is no airport in Sikkim, though a foundation stone has been laid down in 2002 for construction of an air strip near Pakyong, East Sikkim which is around 32 km from Gangtok. The nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal (120 Km). There is a helicopter service between Gangtok and Bagdogra. The State has also initiated construction of a number of helipads to connect the district and sub-divisional headquarters and important tourist places.

Power

The total installed capacity of power in the state is 36 MW that is hydro based with transformation capacity of 123 MW. Rangeet hydel project has installed capacity of 560 MW. The total power potential of the State is estimated at 8,000 MW. Since, very less percentage of it is tapped, the Government is taking several initiatives by attracting private investments into the sector.

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