Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang launched 25 motorbikes and tourist vehicles for these border regions from the Ridge Park in Gangtok, officially marking the opening.
Situated at an elevation of 15,600 feet, Dok La was the site of a standoff between Indian and Chinese forces in 2017. Cho La became notable during the 1967 Indo-China conflicts.
Tamang stated that the opening of Cho La and Dok La is intended to enhance tourism in border areas and generate livelihood opportunities for local residents.
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He mentioned that the Centre’s ‘Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan’ or battlefield tourism initiative aims to open strategically important border regions through regulated tourism, raising awareness of their historical significance.
He emphasized that the initiative would promote understanding of the bravery and sacrifices of the armed forces and nurture a sense of patriotism among the public.
CS Rao, Additional Chief Secretary of the Tourism Department, noted that the state government has been collaborating with the Army and the Centre for the past two months to ensure the safe passage of tourists through the passes.
While infrastructure development is ongoing, basic facilities are already in place, he added.
Tourists can explore these areas on a two-day package with affordable homestays and set vehicle rates, he mentioned.
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(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
