Sikkim: Tourism stakeholders files written complaint against Army's refusal to allow tourist vehicles

Tourism stakeholders residing in the Dzuluk area and along the JN Road complain of the Army not allowing tourist vehicles despite proper permits from the concerned authority. 

"This is the peak tourist season in Sikkim and if the army doesn't allow tourist vehicles to ply then we have to face a situation from tourists who come from very far away but won't be able to visit the places then they are disappointed and we have already received payment also," said one of the protestors.

While talking to IG Checkpost  ST Bhutia in this regard shared "Why they (Army) are not allowing vehicles we need to ascertain and after that we will contact GOC and we are trying to understand the issue. 

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While tourism stakeholders have also decided to file a written police complaint so that early action they receive as this is peak tourist season. 

Must tell Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Indo China border pass and adjoining areas are famous tourist destinations and at present receiving a decent number of tourists and it falls under Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Protected Area Permit (PAP) and needs a special permit from state permit cell and tourists vehicles are allowed only after the permit but army is restricting the same.

meanwhile, Indian Army has issued advisory to tourists urging them to avoid Zuluk to Kupup axis due to high chances of land slide on the route as heavy snowfall has blocked several key routes in the state. 

"It is to inform that due to heavy rainfall/snowfall on the Zuluk to Kupup axis there are chances of land slide on the route. Also, due to the inclement weather, visibility on the route is also hampered severely. In view of the above, the route from Zuluk to Kupup has been closed as an precautionary measure from March 21 to 22. You are advised not to use the route from Zuluk to Kupup for the said duration", mentioned the advisory by the army.