The Additional Chief Secretary of the Tourism Department, CS Rao, stated that the new system will streamline the processes for Restricted Area Permits (RAP) and Protected Area Permits (PAP), allowing easier access to popular sites such as Nathu La, Tsomgo Lake, Lachen, Lachung, and Zuluk. Travelers will be able to apply online and receive QR-coded permits, which are intended to expedite checks at security points.
“The new platform will integrate data across various agencies, including tourism, police, transport, and the Army, facilitating real-time verification. Trial runs are currently in progress with a select group of operators. We anticipate a broader rollout soon,” he said.
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Rao mentioned that this initiative is part of a larger government strategy aimed at reducing delays, ensuring smoother tourist movement, and enhancing oversight in sensitive areas.
Push to reopen Chungthang–Lachen corridor by December
In a separate update, Chief Secretary R Telang instructed all departments to work towards reopening the Chungthang–Lachen route in the Mangan district by December. He delivered these directives during a review meeting at the Tashiling Secretariat.
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“All departments and implementing bodies must collaborate to eliminate obstacles without delay, ensuring the Chungthang-Lachen corridor is reopened by December,” he stated.
Officials from the 27 Mountain Division, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Roads & Bridges, and Land Revenue departments, along with the district collectors of Gangtok and Mangan, attended the review.
They briefed the chief secretary on ongoing projects, including road restoration, bridge repairs, and landslide clearance along the Dikchu–Mangan and Chungthang–Lachen routes. They also reported advancements on other BRO initiatives throughout the state.
According to officials, the construction of the Taram Chu bridge has reached its final phase and is expected to be completed by December 2025. Once finished, it will enable the full reopening of the Chungthang–Lachen route.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
