Airport at Pakyong Sikkim, SKM accused Govt

The East District unit of the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha today accused the state government and the Airport Authority of India of gross negligence in the construction of the airport at Pakyong. It said houses and landed property of the residents of Naya Busty have been adversely affected by the ongoing construction.

SKM publicity secretary (East) Bhawani Ghimirey said Rhenock MLA Hemendra Adhikari toured the area and found 12 houses in very critical condition, which can collapse any time. Area residents complained to the MLA that the AAI is taking a serious note of the issue.

In a press release issued today, Ghimirey noted the residents have also pointed out the AAI had assured to provide employment and contractual work to educated youths of the area and to resettle those affected at the GREF Compound in Pakyong bazaar. This was corroborated by the chief minister prior to the commencement of the construction work, but only a handful of residents have been relocated while most are still suffering, he added.

Interacting with the residents, MLA Adhikari urged them to remain patient and assured them the SKM would hold talks with the government on measures to safeguard residents of the affected area. He demanded the concerned department to take immediate steps for the resettlement of the remaining people as also to provide them with necessary relief. (PR)