Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba has urged the Union government to expedite the permanent restoration of the slope failure below the runway of Pakyong Airport, warning that further delays would increase safety risks, escalate project costs and prolong the closure of the Himalayan state’s only airport.
During a meeting with Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu in New Delhi, Subba submitted a detailed representation seeking urgent central intervention to fast-track the stabilisation and rehabilitation work.
According to a press statement issued by the MP’s office, Subba informed the minister that the slope failure had also severely disrupted traffic on National Highway 717A, causing persistent hardship to commuters and residents of Pakyong. He stressed that a comprehensive engineering solution was essential not only to resume flight operations but also to ensure the long-term stability of the surrounding terrain.
Expressing concern over delays in technical studies, the MP said preliminary assessments for permanent slope stabilisation had remained pending for months, stalling progress despite the passage of two monsoon seasons. He warned that continued exposure to rain and soil erosion would worsen the damage, making future rehabilitation more complex and expensive.
Subba urged the Ministry of Civil Aviation to complete the required geological surveys, field investigations, technical planning and statutory clearances before the end of the current monsoon so that construction work could begin promptly during the next working season.
Highlighting the wider impact of the airport’s closure, the MP said the prolonged suspension of flight operations had adversely affected tourism, trade, emergency healthcare access and overall economic activity in the landlocked state. As Sikkim’s only operational airport, Pakyong serves as a vital transport link for residents, tourists, businesses, emergency medical services and strategic agencies.
The statement added that Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu gave a patient hearing to the representation and assured the MP that the ministry would examine the matter on priority and take the necessary steps to expedite the restoration of Pakyong Airport.
