Section 6 Vision & Strategies For The City: My Vision of Gangtok

City Development Plan-Gangtok City
Section 6 Vision & strategies for the City

My Vision of Gangtok
I would love to live in a Gangtok that is friendly. It must not pretend to be what it is not. It must echo my love for the hills and mountains and my love for the environment. It must reflect a pace of life which synchronous with nature! Fresh air, the songs of birds and the smell of flowers should greet me daily. My walk to the market should be easy and sensible and the greetings from the shopkeepers should echo the greetings that I possess in my heart for them as well as to all the people I meet on a daily basis. The sunshine, the thunder squall or rain must combine to give me pleasure even as I work out of my office above my residence. The winter must be cold enough to keep me satisfied that the global warming is still many years away. I should be able to take a short ride in a cable car to the nearest Tea Room, which faces the auditorium and library. This is where a play is being staged created by children from a nearby school. The library is modern and full of lively books on all subjects from the world over. Here I find solace and friends. I should be able to take my visiting friends for a walk to the city. Eat in a restaurant serving local food in clean surroundings. I really do not want to see a Mall or an ugly structure that obstructs the view of the valley and mountains on the one side and the casts a shadow on the other which kills all the plants for want of sunshine. I should be able to see painted houses and buildings all neatly finished. Their cars tucked into their driveways not spilling over into the roadside blocking both the traffic the children going to school. In a clean un-littered Gangtok there should be no young people loitering around in the streets doing nothing. Rather, I would like to see more of my folk taking to working from their own homes or small businesses. That is where the world is going I believe especially in the mountains. We need to be mindful of this.
A Citizen of Gangtok
Urban Development and Housing Department, Government of Sikkim
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Stakeholders Vision of Gangtok

The collective vision of the various stakeholders, the elected representatives, and the communities of Gangtok wish for an improved quality of life, which also meant the protection of the city residents from the imminent threats due to the vulnerability to recurrent landslides and other environmental degrading factors. A well governed, economically vibrant and environmentally sustainable city with access to basic services to all by 2021 through: Provision of basic infrastructure and urban services for all, towards achieving safer living conditions and an improved quality of life; Excellence in urban governance and maintenance of urban infrastructure. A capital city which is clean and stable, and where people can have easy access to safe drinking water, health care and education A cleaner, greener city in the next 5 years time. A city with all modern facilities and amenities. A congestion free city through development of alternate diversion roads, creation of alternative commercial hubs away from the existing CBD, appropriate environmental friendly public transportation system and parking facilities; A garbage free, pollution free city with committed efforts from residents, ULB and government. Improved safety, security and organized development, to form a base for Gangtok to develop as a sought after tourist destination showcasing the culture of Sikkim 6.1 REALITY
The citizens of Gangtok are mute witnesses to the rapid urbanization, deterioration of services, growing congestion and increasing pollution. They wish for a return to the good old days, where there was quality and dignity of life. There are small individual groups who wish to contribute to the society, and associations like the Architects of Sikkim have tried to influence the course of things. A few other NGOs like Sikkim Development Foundation, VHAS and ECOSS have been driven by a desire to service, but many others have left it at the level of conferences and meetings. Today Gangtok is facing the twin challenge of continuing to play its predominant role as a business and tourist centre of the state, while at the same time maintaining the tranquility,
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cleanliness and orderliness required for its inhabitants. Otherwise there is a danger that the citys very plus points will become its negatives. Tourists are looking for tranquility, cleanliness, orderliness, greenery and a return to nature. Interestingly, our survey of citizens of Gangtok revealed that they too are looking for the very same characteristics in their city. Gangtok is the first stop of tourists coming to Sikkim who normally spend 2-3 days in Gangtok before exploring the beauty of Sikkims hinterland or going on treks. The first impression of the city on tourists and its cleanliness and orderliness decides their word of mouth recommendation to folks at home. 6.2 STATE VISION: GANGTOK AS AN ENTERPRISE
Gangtok is not only the capital of Sikkim, but is also the gateway to the rest of Sikkim. As mentioned earlier, Sikkim has seen an upsurge in tourist inflow over the last few years. Indeed tourism is one of the cornerstones in the strategy for development of Sikkims economy. Being the largest city of Sikkim, Gangtok continuously attracts rural population who wish to migrate to the city in search of jobs and livelihood. With the opening of border trade with China over the Nathula pass, the commercial activity and migration to Gangtok is likely to increase further. Hence it is necessary to view Gangtok in holistic terms, not only prepare plans to improve the current situation to effectively deal with the expected pressure on population and services, but also by anticipating Gangtoks larger role in the regional perspective. Some of the visions for Gangtok in the regional context have been listed from a to f. a. Trading Hub for North Eastern India
In the regional context, Gangtok has the potential to emerge as a major trading and economic hub in the north eastern region of India. Peaceful political & social climate and skilled human resource are strengths that can attribute to Gangtok emerging as a regional player. The real significance of the Indo-China trade through Nathula on Gangtok requires greater analysis in terms of the opportunities available for Gangtok and the people of Sikkim. Because of its proximity to the Tibetan Autonomous Region TAR, and hence the industrial giant China, Gangtoks strategic location needs to be capitalized. Over time once the trade is established, Gangtok Metropolitan Region can emerge as the first stop trading and commercial hub in India for the Indo-China trade.
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b.
Warehousing / Logistics Centre
With the re-opening of Nathula, facilities of warehousing and transportation can be proposed at the entry and exit points of the state. It is estimated that trade and commerce between India and China will flourished and a minimum of 216 Crores worth of goods will be transacted every year. Warehousing will facilitate easy transportation of products throughout the country and to China, while providing employment and economic spin offs to a large number of Sikkimese people.
c.
International / National Level Research Centers for Herbs and Alpine Plants
Such institutes can be proposed in the state, especially in the east and west districts. The west district has a number of peaks, dense forest cover and rare flora and fauna. These places can be transformed into eco tourism spots. The herbal and medicinal plantations provided with facilities such as botanical gardens for rare species in suitable locations can boost eco-tourism. This can be promoted as an industry and promotional steps may be taken for genetic up gradation and exports of flowers, especially orchids. Establishment of training centers for the cultivators can enhance local level participation in these areas. Use of new technologies can be introduced through these training centers. Proper marketing strategies, product promotion and systematic planning is likely to create a new brand image for these local products in domestic and international markets. d. Gateway for Religious and Eco-Tourism
The distance from Gangtok to Lhasa is 600 kms, thereby making it the shortest route for tourists to enter India from the TAR. Gangtok can capitalize on its strategic location and be the hub for religious tourism and tourism in Sikkim and other parts of India. Destination Gangtok / Sikkim can be coined as a part of tourism policy. Gangtok shall serve as a base for all tourism related activities. e. Centre for Excellence
Since Gangtok is deemed to be a logistics centre in the future, it can also develop as a centre for Institutional excellence.
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f.
International / National Spa Destination: -
Gangtok can emerge as the first stop for the Spa destination of Sikkim. International / national level Spa and nature cure centers in and around Gangtok may be established. This may ideally be proposed in the East district because of the connectivity with Pakyong (proposed airport) and the railhead at West Bengal. However, other districts too have the potential to sport such facilities, and the state can develop International / national level Spa and nature care centers as it has bountiful of medicinal and herbal plants. These specialized Spa would attract international tourists and will provide therapies and services in an atmosphere that facilitate the healing forces of nature. Whether it's the healing water from the springs, energy from the crystals found in the mountains, or the beautiful crystal water fountain, these hidden forces of nature combined with the skilled therapists can really do wonder for the visiting tourists. 6.3 SECTOR VISIONS FOR THE CITY
A targeted approach has been worked out to achieve the vision objectives through setting goals for the development of each of the sectors. The Table 6.3 provides a vision for each of the sectors.
Table 6.1: Sector Visions
Gangtok Region
Decongestion of Gangtok to the peri urban areas Well planned urban expansion To ensure access to drinking and safe water supply to all. Towards coverage of the densely populated pockets of the city with an underground sewerage system and promote environmentally safe sanitation practices for treatment of Waste water. To achieve environmentally sustainable waste management practices. To improve operational efficiencies of the present network, develop new roads for decongestion of the city core and development of appropriate public transport system To promote a healthy, clean environment with emphasis on Creation of a safe and livable city, with adequate provisions of recreation and green spaces.
Water Supply Sewerage and Sanitation
Solid Waste Management
Roads and transportation
Urban Environment
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Slum Development and Poverty Alleviation City Economic Development Urban Growth and Land Management
To provide access to housing and basic infrastructure.
To create diversified economic base, IT, Education. To achieve a coherent urban form with adequate open and green space, high standards of infrastructure and effective land management. To promote a city managed with pro-active institutions and capable staff. To achieve a city that is a model for urban finance management.
Urban Governance and Institutional Development Urban Finance
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STRATEGY: URBAN DEVELOPMENT AT STATE LEVEL
In order to decelerate the population growth rate of Gangtok, it is important to view the city in the State context and make an effort to avoid imbalances in the regional development pattern. Therefore:a) The investment pattern of future development programs in Sikkim will have to be considered in terms of regional parameters to avoid regional imbalance. Hence, all programmes in the State should be conceived in broader (regional) terms with regard to socio-economic, geographic and environmental parameters. b) Decision and policy makers will have to consciously avoid further aggravation of the regional differentials in income, employment, general living standards etc. by adhering to the above-mentioned point. c) There is a necessity for proper master planning of all the 9 urban centres in terms of spatial and economic planning, provision of infrastructure and urban services and employment generation in order to attract investors and further create a climate for preferred location by the people. d) It will be imperative to give utmost regard to the socio-economic and environmental parameters while planning in the other urban centres. e) More stress will have to be given to the road sector in improving connectivity between the urban centres, with focus on providing good quality roads where driving time is reduced.
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f) Sikkim will have to be holistically conceived as one large urban agglomeration in the future for the purpose of providing appropriate civic amenities and future growth. 6.5 STRATEGY: DEVELOPMENT AT CITY LEVEL
In order to give shape to the vision for the city, the city government has drawn up concrete project plans for different sectors like social Infrastructure including education, environment, health, employment generation, social amenities and physical Infrastructure including roads, water supply, sewerage system, solid waste management etc. Specific plans and strategies need to be formulated for area development and town development. The objectives are: Social and economic upliftment of citizen Opportunities for availability of good social infrastructure Opportunities for physical infrastructure Affordable and comfortable housing
Following are the list of issues that have been considered while preparing the City Development Plan for the capital city of Gangtok. The area that has been considered for the preparation of the CDP is named as Greater Gangtok Planning Area (GGPA). Decongesting Gangtok for new development and encouraging peri-urban areas as growth centre/magnets. Interconnecting Gangtok with the new growth magnets. Accommodating economic activities emerging from re-opening of Nathula pass. Diversified activities in the identified growth magnets. Encouraging peoples participation in developmental activities. Modifying legal & regulatory system for the parastatal bodies. Capacity building of parastatal bodies. Democratic decentralization and devolution of financial powers to the grass root level institutions in accordance with the 74th amendment shall be the main focus areas. Positioning of ULB for Gangtok that will stress on grass root level planning and the process for municipalisation of Gangtok to be initiated. Encouraging agriculture for strengthening rural economy while focusing on regional planning for discouraging migration into Gangtok. Poverty alleviation of urban poor. Establishment of an Urban Arts Commission for aesthetic impression of the City. Drafting a new Housing Policy to absorb the increasing demand. Provide a programme for urban slum dwellers that improve their living conditions, and assist in alleviating poverty.
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Incorporate a disaster management mechanism with a comprehensive network of fire fighting system in place.
Backbone of governance would have been built E Governance
Governance Backbone
Financial management and Reporting Internal Capacity
Vibrant Gangtok will transform Gangtok from a clean and livable city to a productive, well governed and self-sustaining
Vibrant City
Good service levels will release municipal funds for other requirements
Per capita water supply Sewage Coverage Sewage Treatment Solid Waste Collection
The foundation for growth would have been provided

Education Environment Infrastructure
Employment/Economy
Road network Social 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Health
Figure 6.1: Strategy for Gangtok City Development
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6.5.1 Economic Development of Gangtok Some of the opportunities available for the economic development of Gangtok are the educated and technical manpower, presence of technical institutes, educational centres, stable government, good infrastructure base in the form of power, roads, parking facilities and conducive social ambience. These attributes coupled with the tourism policy have been considered for formulating the strategy for economic development of the city.
Strategy for Economic Development
Areas for interventions Professional development, Research and development
Strategies Facilitate the existing educational and technical institutes as Centres of Excellence Business skills development Technology and knowledge transfer
Actions Initiate scholarship programmes and grants to students opting for higher studies, skill enhancement Establish education information centres for information dissemination Establish Universities and specialized institutes Initiate student exchange programmes with National and International Institutes Liaison with training institutes to develop training packages for locals based on demand Promote entrepreneurs through loans on flexible items, trainings in acquiring new skills, production and marketing facilities Conducting seminars and workshops to entrepreneurs on various options
Stimulating Business Climate and Investments
Promote Small and Medium scale industries Promote cottage industries, handicrafts and agro based industries Improve marketing linkages, forward and backward linkages
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Infrastructures and services
Improvement in water supply, drainage and landslip protection
Increase funds for landslip protection, water supply and drainage. Changes in policy framework to improve the infrastructure viz. landslip protection, drainage, roads and water supply on long term basis Liaison with research institutes nationally and internationally to develop sustainable strategies Create new road linkages with new areas Development of transport plan to improve linkages within the region and other parts of the country Promote mass rapid transit system through PPP Strengthen air linkage and initiate rail linkage if Possible Promote Gangtok as hub and link for religious tourism Aggressive marketing of Gangtok as a tourist attraction and hub for eco-tourism in Sikkim and the region. Promote Sikkim through Gangtok as base for adventure tourism
City and Regional linkages
Development of a Mass Rapid Transit System Roads Development Air transport Development Bringing Gangtok on the Global Tourist Map
Tourism
6.5.2 Spatial Planning The primary long term objective of spatial planning for Gangtok is to decongest the core city area, upgrade the existing assets and disperse the settlement pattern to the hinterland thereby creating a Greater Gangtok Planning Area. Focus will be to decelerate population influx in to Gangtok by strategically catalyzing the growth of economic hubs as well as the rural hinterland that service the city, thereby bringing them into the ambit of the city development plan. Creating growth centres/magnets in the peri urban areas of the city and developing these, as centres of economic activities shall be the strategy for spatial dispersion. Since there is no alternative to Gangtoks economic stature within Sikkim today, people have no choice but to invest within the city limits for maximizing returns. The creation of these growth centres will place before the people a choice of location for their investments.
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The strategy for spatial development of Gangtok based on the above stated objectives is three tier: i. The first is the short-term management plan of Gangtok that has a 1-4 years perspective. It is primarily envisaged to strengthen the existing assets. The second is the medium term development plan, the objectives of which are achievable in the next 5-10 years. The third is the long-term development plan of Gangtok, of which the prime focus will be to decentralize Gangtok by enhancing the capacity of the hinterlands that service the city. This shall be done by the creating growth centres in the adjoining rural hinterland. The areas chosen for the growth centres are within a distance of 1030 kms from the city core and are in some way or the other already servicing the city. This may be achievable in the next 20-25 years. The long-term development plan will however require several changes in the present policies, in addition to new policies that will have to be drawn up in order to achieve the objectives. 6.5.2.1 Short Term Management Plan for Gangtok
ii.
iii.
Some of the short-term plans that require immediate intervention for improving the quality of life in Gangtok are as follows: 1. Upgradation and improvement of the existing road network that requires urgent intervention. Details given at Urban Transportation. 2. It would be appropriate to move away commercial hubs from the city centre so that there is a natural tendency for the associated economic activities to move away from town, unless in some cases where land is under the ownership of the UD&HD such as the Old Food Godown which is at the heart of the city. The site has been found ideal for the construction of a Shopping Mall. 3. Turning the Whitehall complex into a habitat centre will add to the creation of a useable open area for the city. Ridge road improvement may be done by creating a tunnel to link Tathangchen road and Bhanu Path so as to divert the traffic from ridge road and making this entire belt car free and used for pedestrian use only. 4. Conversion of the area between the State Archive centre and the Police quarter near AIR, into a multipurpose park and making the entire area into a cultural hub for exhibitions and performing arts. 5. Maintaining status quo of open areas in Gangtok as they are, and or converting them into parks and gardens, wherever possible.
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6. Re-examine the policies relating to the site allotment by the UD&HD. 7. Improvement of traffic junctions that are major bottlenecks, at the areas of: i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. vii. viii. ix. x. xi. xii. Metro-MG Marg Junction Hospital junction Community Hall Junction Lall Bazar junction Deorali Junction Tadong (Daragaon) Bazar Sikkim Government College entrance-exit point Zero point Junction PS Road-DPH Road junction JN Road- Tibet Road Junction Tibet Road-Feeder road to MG Marg Junction (Near Sukhani House) Creation of tunnel to link Tathnagchen Road and Bhanu path & beautification of Ridge road 8. Improvement of pedestrian facilities in and around the city, especially around the junction. The NBCC is already in the process of constructing footpaths along the National Highway all the way from Baluwakhani to Ranipool. However, the other inner city footpaths require to be repaired/upgraded at the earliest. 9. Introduction of mass public transport with reasonable frequency. The data provided at Table 4.5 reflects the growth of personalized transport. 92% of the interviewed commuters have expressed their desire for public transportation.
10. Creating localized parking areas. Since Gangtok has a hilly terrain and all houses area not accessible by road, smaller parking nooks for taxis and private vehicles that are available locally, in and around Gangtok especially for off the road structures is essential. Some of the places that require parking areas are: i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. vii. viii. ix. Sichay Busty: PS Road to DC office Road from PS to Lower Sichay. Burtuk area Tadong area Chandmari Namnang Gairi Gaon area Paljor stadium road Sikkim Jewels Bahai School Road
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11. The existing taxi stands in Gangtok require improvement and rejuvenation. Their efficiency needs to be augmented by the introduction of suitable interventions that will make it capable of accommodating more cars. Old West Point School Car Park, Old Children Park Car Park require augmentation or reconstruction. 12. Provision of foot over bridge between STNM Hospital and Metro Point, Near Five ways junction at Deorali Bazar, Near Bansilal Petrol pump and Government Degree College at Tadong. 13. Relocating the bus terminal from the present SNT area and the private bus stop to the lower reaches of the city in and around the Floor Mill complex in 5th Mile Tadong. It is also necessary to create a truck terminal for off loading of goods from larger trucks. Some of the areas where there is a possibility for establishing an integrated bus and truck terminal are: i. Old Flour Mill Area For intercity bus and truck terminal with loading unloading facilities, weigh bridges, retiring rooms, canteen etc. ii. iii. Burtuk- above Helipad for North bound traffic (lighter vehicles). Chandmari proposal underway for Nathula bound traffic.
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Map No. 12: Location of Probable Project Areas

Courtesy: Town Planning Cell, UD&HD
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6.5.2.2
Medium Term Development Plan (For the Next 5-10 Years)
Some of the medium term development plans are: To create a ring road around the city through the lower reaches of Sichay, Samdur, Siyari, Tathangchen, Chanmari, Tashi view point. To create alternative roads from areas along the Eastern and Western parts of Gangtok. This is essential to off load the pressure on the National Highway (NH). Other links roads also need to be created so that there are options for a commuter to reach one point. These roads will also make inaccessible areas accessible. It has been mentioned in Urban Transportation. Creation of a new road off MP Golai at Tadong to open up the area above Ranipool (Samdur) area is an alternative to establish a vibrant commercial centre to decongest Gangtoks CBD. Once it is agreed Land development cost need not to be borne by the Government as other mechanisms such as PPP methods could be used for the same. Value can be added to the land by planning the area and allocating specific functions such as parks, gardens, town hall, multiplex with a food court etc. to the area. Creation of a new road connecting Jeewan Theeng Marg to the Indira Bypass via TNHSS. Landslip protection and land reclamation through jhora training. The jhoras or natural drains in and around Gangtok have been mapped and numbered. These waterways are steadily being encroached upon alongside the increase in the volume of surface runoff of water. Intervention in formalizing these waterways is required. Training of jhoras within the citys jurisdiction need to be carried out in accordance with the environmental threats they pose. Drains in various localities alongside the storm water drains are inadequate; hence need to be constructed in order to mitigate disasters such as landslips. On the lower reaches of Gangtok, the riverfront needs development into parks and recreational areas. Avenue plantation in conformity and continuation to the State Green Mission. Positioning of appropriate street furniture and walkways.
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6.5.2.3
Long Term Development Plan - Development of Growth Centres
To off load the pressure on Gangtok, it is intended to develop growth centres/magnets in the peri-urban areas of Gangtok that shall constitute the proposed Gangtok Metropolitan Region. The adjoining areas of Pakyong, Ranka, Luing, Rumtek, Pangthang/Penlong, Bhusuk and Assam Lingzay have been considered as potential areas. Provisions for all essential infrastructure and rapid communication connecting these proposed growth centres are the primary objectives. It is intended to catalyse commercial, residential and institutional activities in these magnets to decongest Gangtok by proposing large scale new projects and activities, which are planned to be proposed at Gangtok. Gangtok will have to have greater connectivity with these growth centres/magnets with the introduction of a suitable Mass Transit System. The areas of Penlong, Ranka, Luing, Assam Lingzay, Pakyong, Rumtek and Bhusuk were assessed and proposed with regard to their location and geographical strengths. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK FOR DEVELOPMENT OF GREATER GANGTOK PLANNING AREA Within a radius of 30 -35 kms (Ground distance) Courtesy: Town Planning Cell, UD&HD
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i.
Bhusuk
The Bhusuk hill facing Gangtok is located at a driving distance of 1 hour, i.e. approximately 35 to 40 kms from Gangtok. This area is primarily represented by a fragile eco system and is hence unsuitable for high-density growth. It is therefore assumed that the load bearing capacity of the soil is low as compared to other parts of Metropolitan Gangtok. Development in this area can be represented in the form of large open spaces and very lowrise buildings, preferably for recreational purpose. It will be possible to create a habitat centre, interpretation centre, botanical gardens, centre for flora and fauna. It may also be developed as a centre for sporting facilities such as lawn tennis, badminton, swimming and other types of sports that do not require heavy infrastructure. ii. Pakyong
Pakyong is located at a distance of 25-30 kms from Gangtok. It is already notified as one of the 9 urban centres of Sikkim. The proposed airport will be located in Pakyong. There is also a proposal for the creation of an IT city in Pakyong. This will create a boom for other service related activities. The surrounding hinterland of Pakyong has the potential to develop as an industrial zone because of its proximity to Bengal. iii. Assam Lingzay
Assam Lingzay is located around 15 kms from Gangtok within a driving distance of around 30 minutes. Due to the land profile and enabling weather this area should ideally be planned as a residential area. We can encourage Private Public Partnership for providing housing facilities in Assam Lingzay. It also has the potential to attract investments for development of institutions such as schools and colleges so that the residential area can develop in tune with the schools. iv. Rumtek
The Rumtek hillside is located at a distance of about 20 kms from Gangtok. The strength of Rumtek is that it is already an upcoming tourist destination as there are already a number of resorts operating there. The main magnet in Rumtek is the presence of Rumtek Monastery and te Lingding Monastery which is located at Ranka but is within a driving distance of 20 minutes from Rumtek. Focus of planning in this area shall have to be tourism oriented. The area requires to be notified and the type of structures will have to be in tune with the landscape. It will be essential to encourage low-density development. Establishment of infrastructure for tourism related commercial activities is essential here to reinforce the idea of decentralizing Gangtok. People of Rumtek can avail of these services locally.
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v.
Pangthang, Luing and Ranka
The Pangthang, Ranka and Luing hill facing Gangtok is one continuous stretch and is located within a distance of 10 kms from Gangtok and driving time of 20 minutes. There has been active consideration of turning Ranka into a satellite town of Gangtok. However, on analysis it is felt that the development of a satellite township at Ranka alone is not going to be a solution in the long term. Therefore, the concept of creating growth magnets in these areas surrounding Gangtok is being considered for decentralizing Gangtok for a more sustainable approach. This entire belt may be developed into an institutional as well as a commercial hub. Pangthang / Penlong is already developing as an institutional hub with several educational and Government institutions such as the GB Pant of Himalayan Studies, Taktse International School, proposed five star hotel, Department of Forest research centre, proposed sports centre or Khelgaon, and the centre for Buddhist studies already operating in the area. The establishment of the Nathula trade is expected to further catalyse the growth of Ranka and Luing due to the alternative highway that has been proposed along the existing Ranka Luing Road to cater to the Nathula trade. Because of its proximity to Gangtok, eastern facing slopes and favourable climate, Ranka and Luing are growing very fast. Several resorts are coming up along the Ranka-Luing Road. Growth of settlements along the highway in the near future is going to be heavy exhibiting similar characteristics of development as in Gangtok. All urban services, especially transport terminals will have to be planned immediately in Ranka to cater to the growing traffic. 6.5.2.4 Strategies for Settlement Planning In the Growth Centres
Once it is agreed in principle that these areas be developed as growth centres/magnets, it will be essential to make an assessment of the land situation. Since most land is privately owned, it will be imperative to notify these areas for the functions listed in each area above and develop a strategy for the land management, especially for the purpose of building roads and infrastructure. The opening up of these growth magnets will be for the relocation and development of new government, educational institutions, localized commercial centres and residential buildings. This will be the impetus for growth of economic activities. The planning of settlements in the growth magnets can be designed for a planned township where focus is given to neighborhood planning that dictates the locations of institutions and schools within 10-15 minutes of walking distance. This has
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impacts on the settlement in terms of reducing travel time. This in turn reduces traffic congestion during peaks hours. Development of commercial centres, administrative centres, bus and truck terminals in the new areas identified as growth magnets for spatial and economic decentralization of Gangtok. After notifying the potential counter magnets, the immediate focus should be to augment the present road condition, as well as to develop an alternative road network to open up these areas for development. Reduction in travel time between the growth magnets and Gangtok will have to be the prime focus so that the hinterland is attractive for people to fan out to these areas. This can be achieved by developing an efficient road network interconnecting all these centres with Gangtok. Land Management
6.5.2.5
The long term spatial development plan of Gangtok Metropolitan Region will require several changes in the present policies and introduction of new policies for housing and land management. Some of the methods for land management are: Land pooling and readjustment method. Wherein the owners of land jointly pool in their land. Value is added to their land by planning the area properly and keeping provision for infrastructure development. The land is then returned to the owners who may sell their land in accordance with the local area plans or master plans. Introducing the PPP module for housing and land management. Examination of Land acquisition policy. Establishment of an Urban Arts Commission. Introduction of State Housing Policy PROVISION OF URBAN SERVICES: VISION AND STRATEGIES
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6.6.1 Maintain Individual Dignity - Pride to be a Gangtokian A senior citizen, Mr. Rai, walks the street of Gangtok and feels proud to call himself a Gangtokian. He belongs to a city of proactive citizens who voice their opinion not for any individual benefit, but to improve their living environ. He takes his morning walks along the Ridge Park with his friends. His little apso trots alongside, occasionally barking at his genre. The old man Mr. Rai decides to drop by the Habitat Centre that used to be earlier called the
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White Hall complex and meet up with his old acquaintances who drop by the caf for a hot cup of Sikkim Tea in large mugs. He wishes to share his excitement about his grandson who was part of the school team to Mayo College, Ajmer, and won an award in the best school sanitation competition, who constantly advocates about eco conservation. Mr. Rai and his friends are part of the civil society of Gangtok who have interesting exchange of ideas at this caf. He feels his city has been well taken care of especially seeing that the clean and well maintained drains have been covered with steel gratings. He finds ease crossing the roads and gets assistance from the friendly but smart and alert policeman who stops the traffic to help him cross. He certainly sees changes, in particular un-acceptance of ideas of the older folks but is nevertheless satisfied.he is happy to be living in Gangtok, there is still dignity and quality of life here! 6.6.2 Urban Governance The state Government is aiming at democratic decentralization and devolution of financial powers to the grass root level institutions in accordance with the 74th amendment of the Constitution of India. Positioning of the Gangtok Municipal Corporation that will stress on grass root level planning has been visualized and the process for municipalisation of Gangtok initiated. Greater accountability from office bearers and service providers, whose roles and intentions are transparent, is where the stress is. It is envisaged that the officers will be well trained and capable, who are conversant with their assignments, are helpful to and mindful of the general needs and concerns of the citizens, are prompt in their actions, are capable of foreseeing the future and drawing up suitable strategies and action plans, and are the pride of the citizens. 6.6.2.1 Strategy for Improving Urban Governance vis--vis - Maintaining Individual Dignity: Devolution of power through municipalisation
Enacting of the Municipal Act for Sikkim. Conducting municipal elections and forming the municipality. Adopting the various financial reforms spelt out in the bill. Assistance to the municipality in introduction of area based property tax. Assistance in HRD and Change management.
a.
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b.
Creation of Citizens charter
To clearly state and provide all information to citizens about the standards of service delivery that concern the departments of UDHD and PHED or the Municipality in the near future. Confirm publicly the rights that the customers, who pay their bills regularly, have in receiving water and sanitation services from the Municipality. Generate awareness about responsibilities of citizens vis--vis commitments of the Municipality with the ultimate objective of removing hurdles and providing quality services to citizens, and state clearly the customers obligations. Develop transparent administration by taking the consumer into total confidence. Create a network of administrative centers that can receive and act upon public grievances. Enlist the cooperation of the people in maintenance of a clean and green city in the spirit of togetherness and belonging. Respond to feedback from consumers in most positive and quickest possible way. Always endeavour for delivering excellence in products and services. In its all activities do the business with ethics and integrity. Endeavour continuously to improve quality of products and services under its responsibilities.
Note: More has been explained about Institutional strengthening in chapter 8. 6.6.3 Providing for the Urban Poor- Slum Improvement Provision of basic services such as potable water supply, efficient solid waste management, sewerage, community taps, sanitation facilities such as public toilets, clean drains, good footpaths, open spaces, formation of self help groups and CBOs for asset management and affordable housing with a special focus on upgradation of housing conditions etc. in the notified slums is the vision we are working on. 6.6.3.1 Strategy The UDHD while proposing to uplift the quality of life in the slums will prepare proposals for the achievement of sectoral problems and issues. An innovative option that lies ahead of us is the achievement of sectoral goals in the slums with the re introduction of the Community
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Small Grants Scheme, where the poor could be a part of the development process, introduced during the AusAID GWSS project in Gangtok. The aim of this scheme was to address urban environmental sanitation issues and enable a broad base of stakeholders to be involved. The guidelines were sufficiently flexible to encourage community members to decide for themselves what types of activities they wish to undertake and how they will manage at community level. The process seeks to ensure that all vulnerable and disadvantaged groups have equal opportunities to access funds and be actively involved in innovative schemes and projects. Under this scheme, a large number of projects such as community taps, community toilets, school toilets, solid waste management initiative at local level were successfully initiated to address the urban service needs of the urban poor. A. Types of Activities for Community Small Grant Scheme 1. Maintenance and upkeep of community assets through creation of institutional framework at community/institution level; 2. Renovation / rehabilitation of existing assets in the community (Taps, Springs, community toilets, etc.); 3. Creation of infrastructure and provision of services where environmental sanitation services are lacking or absent; 4. Any innovative schemes or activities that directly or indirectly address environmental sanitation issues. Example could include educational and promotional materials, video movies, drama skits, etc 5. Health awareness programs addressing environmental sanitation and health issues in communities; B. Criteria for the Selection of Activity 1. Activity should be demand driven and contribute to achieving objectives related to improvements to water supply, sanitation, drainage, and waste management situation for the people living in slum like areas of Greater Gangtok Area. 2. Activities supported by Small Grant Schemes should benefit different ethnic groups and geographical areas within the Gangtok. 3. Proposals should come from groups/institutions. Community participation in planning and implementation should be clearly visible. Proposals should also demonstrate the proposed activities will benefit a significant number of households and families.
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4. Proposals must clearly address sustainability issues such as operation and maintenance (capital replacement in some instances) of facilities / assets provided through the Small Grants Scheme. 5. Proposals should demonstrate that women and the poor are beneficiaries of the activity. 6. Proposals must include provision for a community contribution of a minimum of 30% of the total value of the activity. This contribution may be either in the form of cash, or made up of a combination of cash and kind (including services, such as labor). In most cases, the proportion of cash contribution should be at least 20% of the total activity value. In certain cases, however, this proportion may be lower, e.g. where proposals come from poor and disadvantaged groups.
7.
The total value of each activity should not be less than Rs 50,000/- (Rupees Fifty Thousand) and not more than Rs 300,000/- (Rupees Three Lakhs). However consideration may be given to proposals of greater value in exceptional cases if they can demonstrate innovative approaches or significant benefits to a large number of
people.
C.
Prioritization of Proposals under the Small Grants Scheme 1. Proposals that can demonstrate high levels of community participation in the planning of the activity; 2. Applications from the weaker and vulnerable sections and those living below the poverty line; 3. Activities that benefit a significant proportion of population within a locality over those that benefit only a few; 4. Proposals that can demonstrate strong community support and long-term commitment to the activity in terms of ongoing contributions of cash, goods or services; 5. Proposals that address the needs of women or that are submitted from groups with a high representation from women; 6. Proposals that have positive environmental impact.
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6.6.3.2 Sl No. 1
Areas of Intervention Slum Daragaon Proposals Drainage works at basketball ground Jhora training work in 5 locations Slope stabilization Road improvement of Bahai School road, ICAR Road Community / Marriage Halls Footpath improvement at Daragaon
Sichay/Development Area
Construction of RCC footpath Community taps Community toilets Street lighting
Chuksing Area
Provision of Drains Disposal of dumped solid waste Footpaths & street lighting Community toilets Training of jhoras
4 5
DPH Bojhoghari
Water supply Community / Marriage Halls Improvement of Jhoras at 5 locations Slope stabilization Improvements of drains Footpaths and street lighting
Old Slaughter house
Improvement of footpath Water supply Community / Marriage Halls Community toilets Washing platforms
Bishalgaon
Community toilets Water supply Solid waste disposal facility Footpaths
Munshi Colony
Training of jhoras Footpaths and street lighting Washing platforms Slope stabilization
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Tathangchen
Provision of drains Solid waste disposal system Improvement of approach road Community toilets
10
Chandmari
Provision of drains Training of jhoras Solid waste disposal system Footpaths and street lighting Sewerage Community / Marriage Halls
11 12
Deorali Burtuk
Provision of drains along the Eastern ridge Water supply Drains Jhora training Community toilets Footpaths and street lighting
6.6.4 Providing Public Amenities 6.6.4.1 Expanding Facilities of Public Toilets It is felt that the renovation of the 12 public toilets undertaken by the GWSSP is just the beginning. Many more such public toilets are required, especially at places of tourist interest. It is also felt that in a cold climate, many more urinals are required including ladies urinals (which are often neglected in India). Sulabh International may also provide toilet facilities to poor communities on community ownership basis on the lines of Small Grants Scheme. It is possible for Sulabh to access funds for such activities. The public toilets should have the following:
Good quality construction including use of vitreous tiles, proper floor slopes to
ensure proper drainage, high quality taps and fittings. These features make for much easier cleaning and better hygiene.
Separate enclosures for gents and ladies. Provision of warm water in winter months. Place for storage of cleaning materials and cleaning equipment. Provision of special toilets for handicapped. Bathing facilities in toilets close to residential areas or near bus stand etc. Double storied toilets at places where either space was a constraint or access
was desirable from multi level.

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Actions Required
UDHD/GMC should ensure that the toilets are maintained properly, the taps are
not leaking and that the flush systems are working properly.
UDHD to negotiate with Sulabh for additional toilets and urinals in tourist areas,
for which funding can be arranged directly by Sulabh International.

UDHD to negotiate with Sulabh for providing grants (on a back to back basis) for
community owned toilet and sanitation facilities on the lines of the Small Grants scheme run by GWSSP.
Toilets to be pay and use. UDHD has the right to decide on any requests for
revision of rates.
Special monthly rates for poorer section of society such as porters, taxi drivers
and shop assistants.

Sulabh to pay a royalty of 10% of revenues to UDHD. This ensures automatic
indexing of UDHD revenues to usage and to inflation, if any.

UDHD to play the role of regulator. UDHD inspectors to ensure that the required
standards are maintained.

UDHD to ensure that sufficient signs are put up by Sulabh on nearby roads
informing the public of the existence of toilets.

UDHD to explore the possibility of hiring out advertisement space on high
frequency toilets for earning advertising revenue. 6.6.4.2 Sanitation in Public Places
The government of Sikkim has already banned the use of plastics for packaging and carrying. However, the tourists continue to bring plastic bags and other material with them, thereby reducing the impact of this environmentally friendly measure. Actions required
Reinforce the Litter and Spit Free zone by (a) renewed IEC campaign (b)
involving the Gangtok Task Force and the MG Marg trade association in educating and in providing sufficient dustbins and spittoons.
Provide wardens/police to enforce the ban on litter and impose fines as already
agreed and notified by UDHD.

RTO should make it mandatory for all Taxis to provide a small waste bin at the
rear seat and to provide signs in each taxi that it is an offence to litter.
The plastics ban should be enforced strictly. Hotels rooms, taxis should carry
stickers to advise tourists not to carry plastic bags or to throw plastic bags in the
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dustbins but to take them back with them. Offenders should be warned by the wardens/police.
The availability of new and modern Pay and Use toilets should be advertised by
signs to reduce urinating in the open. 6.6.4.3 Environmental Upgradation and Beautification- Parks and Gardens Converting the Ridge Park into a pedestrian area by diverting the traffic to Tathangchen area through Bhanupath via a tunnel. Providing street furniture near hospital premises at hospital junction. Banning site allotments on Government land that has the potential to be converted into parks. Converting the stretch above community hall between NH and Bhanu Path into a multipurpose garden cum cultural hub. Convert vulnerable areas into parks, gardens and picnic spots. Restricting environmental degradation by redeveloping degraded areas through afforestation for protecting soil cover and creating botanical gardens. Implementation of strict laws and steps for restricting further degrading environment will help in upgrading existing situation in given areas and other adjoining areas of the capital town. Developing Water front parks and protecting embankments especially in the lower reaches of Sichay, along the river and on the Eastern side along the lower reaches of Tathnagchen and Siyari. Afforestation in Khasmal and Gorucharan areas. Protective cover with appropriate flowering trees in landslide prone areas. Motor garages and car workshops that have been established along the NH and Indira by pass will have to be relocated or shifted to areas that are not noticeable. It is proposed to shift them to interior areas where the traffic volume is considerably less and there is scare human habitation in the periphery. The area most suitable for the shifting of garages is towards Chandmari area 2nd Mile areas.
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6.6.4.4
Crematoria / Burial Grounds
Crematoria / Burial Grounds for various religious groups of population in the city are to be provided i.e. separate provisions for Buddhists, Hindus, Christians and Muslims are to be made in accordance with their religious practices. 6.6.5 Drainage and Landslip Protection
In Gangtok, the major jhoras have been mapped and numbered. Training of these jhoras within the citys jurisdiction need to be carried out in accordance with the environmental threats they pose. Construction of new drains and upgradation of existing drains in the notified slums, M.G Marg, Tibet Raod, Kazi Road, Bahai School Road, Sichay, Development Area, residential areas of Lower Sichay will have to be carried out at the earliest. 6.6.6 Mitigating Visual Pollution All the overhead cables installed by the Power Department, BSNL, cable TV operators, and internet cables etc. will have to be removed with immediate effect. The UDHD/GMC shall provide underground ducts along the roads to cover all localities in a phased manner within the GGPA within which the cables can be installed by the operators. The users must pay for the services provided by the ULB/UDHD It will be imperative to encourage local architecture for building facades and the built environment. In order to give an aesthetic essence to the citys built environment, it will be essential to establish an Urban Arts Commission that will look into matters that give an aesthetic impression to the city. This commission shall look into matters that pertain to building facades, signage, traffic pedestals, advertisement and hoardings, signboards, road signage, street furniture, avenue plantation etc. The commission will be manned by officers with suitable qualifications.
6.6.7 Housing Policy Gangtoks disorganised growth can be attributed to the high demand for housing. The people of Gangtok wish for a good living environment. Owner builder housing is the nature of the housing delivery system in Sikkim. In the absence of strong building regulations,
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unregulated constructions carried out by owner builders have left little room for air, ventilation and access to infrastructure. Hence it is important to evolve a regulatory framework for the housing delivery system that will ensure emergence of planned and organized residential settlements. Social housing for the urban poor will have to be given more thrust so that the poor occupying Government land can be resettled in these units. These housing units will have to be more suitably located in areas that are closer to the business areas. Housing in other areas that are developing with slum like characteristics such as Namnang, Tadong and Gairigaon but are not on Government land may be taken up under the PPP module and subsidized to make it affordable to the poor. Since the Government is considering to playing a larger role as the facilitator, adaptation of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) module is imperative to bridge the gap between demand and supply of housing for the all income groups. This module has to be highly encouraged by the Government where private developers step into the housing sector. Regulations and legislations for proper control and sound housing delivery system for all income groups including the urban poor will have to be put in place by the bureaucracy. It is also in the Governments interest to see that housing for the poor is subsidized. The mechanism of cross subsidies will have to be woven into the housing policy to make housing and access to basic facilities more accessible and affordable to the poor. This may perhaps call for major institutional reforms in order to accommodate the private sector. It is expected that infrastructure development will go hand in hand with housing as is the case while adapting the PPP module. 6.6.8 24/7 Water Supply It is the vision of the people and Government to have uninterrupted and good quality water supply in Gangtok. To make 24 hour supply feasible it will be necessary to prevent waste of water. Metering can provide an incentive for this. High static will also need to be controlled. The approach to improving the water distribution system comprises of:
Cleaning up the current ad hoc distribution system and clearly designating the
water shed of each storage tank, so that the network can be managed and monitored properly.
Using GIS to better identify the areas of dense population and designing pipe
sizes accordingly.
Providing for certain amount of looping so that water supply can be maintained
from an alternate route in the event of a breakdown or landslide.
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A system of thorough flushing of pipes should be introduced after any breakage
of pipes due to landslides or at the time of commissioning of new pipelines. The approach to improving reliability of service will be as follows:
Implement the new hydraulic design worked out by the GWSSP while carrying
out water augmentation Phase II project.

Extend use of Pressure Reducing Valves subject to satisfactory evaluation
results.
Continue with construction of distribution boxes close to clusters of houses to
reduce the length of household connections. Put reduction of water loss in mission mode and have a monthly follow up on actions taken, some of which are described below.
Reduce excess supply and reduce the overload and cost of operating the WTP. Reduce losses from overflow of tanks by proper operation of valves according to
high and low demand periods.

Reduce overflow from consumer tanks by encouraging the consumers to re-
install the float valves by (a) delivering higher pressure (b) eliminating foreign matter which blocks the float valves (c) educating the consumers.
Reduce losses from household connections: (a) shorten connections by proper
placement of distribution boxes (b) switch to volumetric tariff (c) inspection for leaky household pipes and issuing notices to consumers (such an exercise is currently in hand in collaboration with GWSSP and a third party). 6.6.8.1 Strategy for Improving Operation and Maintenance The following steps have to be initiated to improve O&M:
Repairs of chlorination and training of operators in its operation. Repairs to the flow meters in the WTP. Training in water testing. Repairs to enclosures of tanks to stop ingress of foreign matter. Suggestions to improve water supply based on hydraulic modelling. Prescription of log sheets to improve record keeping and analysis. Commissioning of an NGO to carry out leak detection in household connections.
Actions required
Supervision on operations of WTP should be improved.
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As mentioned earlier, post-chlorination should be introduced to provide
effective chlorine residues in the pipes at all times.

The log sheets and preventive maintenance schedule should be followed. Regular cleaning of all tanks should be undertaken.
6.6.9
Efficient Solid Waste Management
The issues with regard to solid waste management are:

To improve collection system in inaccessible areas using innovative solutions. To make the city a much better and clean city by proper SW collection. Stopping pollution and choking of Jhoras with garbage, beautifying the Jhoras. To reduce hazard of infection by proper disposal of medical waste.
Consider various options for collection of SW from inaccessible areas such as:
Use of wheelbarrows with pivot wheels that can climb stairs. However, the non-
standard size of staircases and the difficulty of maintaining the pivot wheels led to rejection of this idea.
Develop local solutions with community composting pits. This was rejected due
to lack of space and doubts about the sustainability of such decentralised community-based ventures.
Use of backpackers to collect SW from house to house in a container to be
carried on the back. This solution though unconventional seemed practical, because the traditional system of carrying goods to and out of such houses has been coolies carrying the material on their back in baskets with harness (much like the haversacks of today).
Use of pick up vans and trucks equipped with hydraulic tippers so that labour
requirement for unloading of the trucks and pick up vans is reduced. Further, the hydraulic tippers reduce the unloading time to a few minutes only, thereby reducing the turn around time and the increasing the vehicle utilisation and reducing costs.
Dividing of the city into seven clusters, such that each cluster was independent
and viable in size. The idea was to improve management and control in each cluster and not allow failure of service in one part to effect service in another part.
To provide standby vehicles to properly maintain the vehicles and also to
provide un-interrupted service all the seven days of the week.
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6.6.9.1 Outsourcing the Service through PublicPrivate-Partnership It has been felt that such service is best run by private commercial operators, and that the UDHD should consider outsourcing the service. This would ideally mean outsourcing the collection and transportation of solid waste upto the waste processing unit and the processes thereafter. The service should be so structured that it is commercially viable and self-sustaining. This would allow UDHD to upscale the service to entire Gangtok instead of restricting it to the core city area. Since the service would be self sustaining it would not add any financial burden on UDHD.
UDHD to stabilise the outsourced service in the two clusters and in a phased
manner extend it over other clusters, next cluster planned for up scaling is MG Marg.
Both UDHD and the contractor should use the GIS system for route planning, fine
tuning the cluster area, and designating the collection area of backpackers.
UDHD to ensure that the bank account for the vehicle replacement fund is
opened and is used only for vehicle replacement.

UDHD to follow up for sanction of the grant as per DPR from CPCB.
6.6.9.2 Community Involvement and their Education a Critical Component Use of IEC material should be made in abundance to educate the community on the need for sanitation and a list of dos and donts
Sensitising the community to the need for co-operation to make the experiment
a success.
To fine tune and stabilise the new SW collection system. Deciding the quantum of user charge and the modus operandi for its collection
through the house owners.

Troubleshooting to help the contractor collect user charge and helping the
community in addressing any deficiency in service.

The NGOs play a very crucial role and is the link between the community, the
contractor and the service provider to make it a success. Actions required

UDHD should make it a policy to use an NGO for community mobilisation when
up-scaling into any new area.
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The community must be involved in the entire design and in each step of
implementation to ensure their ownership and involvement.

The community and the NGO should be actively involved in assisting the
contractor to collect full user charge. High success in collection of user charge is basic to the success of the scheme.
IEC material already developed by the project can be used for educating and
sensitising the community about the importance of sanitation and what to do and not do. 6.6.9.3 Sustainability of Services through Adequate User Charge The scheme of Solid Waste Collection described above is self-sustaining and does not put any financial burden on UDHD. The UDHD has only to take care of the expenses for transportation of SW from the transfer station to the new composting site. UDHD should try and work out a scheme for outsourcing of the composting plant and for disposal of nonbiodegradable waste so that this part of the operation is also self-sustaining. Agreement by the community to pay adequate user charge is critical for sustainability. It is suggested that the user charges be fixed taking into account contingencies, as frequent revision of the user charge is neither desirable nor possible. Actions required
UDHD to fix user charge with sufficient margin for contingencies (evaluation
sheet developed by GWSSP may be used).

Suggestions for UDHD to subsidise the operation in any way whatsoever, should
not be agreed to.

UDHD should examine outsourcing the operation and transportation of waste to
the composting plant. The earnings from sale of compost and the segregated biodegradable material should cover the cost. 6.6.9.4 Segregation of Waste at Source to Improve Efficiency of Composting Plant The design of the SW collection takes into account segregation of waste. It is envisaged that the morning collection of SW will only be for Wet Waste (i.e. kitchen and other biodegradable waste) and special trips will be made twice a week in the afternoon for collection of Dry Waste (non-biodegradable waste including cartons, cardboard, plastic bottles and packing material etc.) This is an important element of design as it ensures that only biodegradable waste reaches the composting plant, so that composting plant produced high quality compost at a low cost. Similarly the recovery from segregated non-biodegradable waste increases because it has not been mixed with wet waste and has a higher recyclable value.
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UDHD will have to carry out an IEC campaign for segregation of waste. This campaign should be repeated whenever new SW collection system is introduced in any new area. Actions required
Introduce segregation of waste whenever up-scaling and outsourcing the SW
collection system.
Use IEC campaign developed by GWSSP to educate the consumers on what is
meant by segregation of waste and what comprises Wet Waste and Dry Waste 6.6.9.5 Handling of Building Demolition Waste
Collection of demolition waste is also a part of SW collection. The SW collection system described earlier has a provision for removal of solid waste from routine repairs or minor modifications to be removed by the same back packers and pick up vans once a week, say on a Sunday. The charges for removal of demolition waste will be extra and as decided by UDHD. Actions required
Introduce a system of weekly collection of routine demolition waste from door
to door.
Specify separate charges for tis service. UDHD to specify landfill areas where the demolition waste is to be disposed off.
6.6.10 6.6.10.1
Good Sanitation Increasing House Connections to Existing Sewer
Based on information obtained from GIS it is seen that several houses, which are within connecting distance of the current sewer mains, are not connected. Enclosed GIS map shows that out of 729 houses within 25 m of sewer main, 30 % are not connected i.e. nearly 225 new houses can be connected in that one area alone. In other words, it can be concluded that several additional houses can be connected to sewer. Action required
Prepare a list of houses within 25 meters of the sewer mains from GIS. Carry out
physical inspection and issue notices to houses where connectivity is technically feasible.
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PHED to run a public awareness campaign on the importance of connecting to
sewer mains, stressing the public health risks and giving notice that penalty will be imposed in cases of non-compliance.
PHED to issue strongly worded letters to house owners of houses not connected
to nearby sewer mains giving them notice to connect within thirty (30) days, or face a penalty.
Start billing those houses where connectivity is technically feasible even though
they may not be connected to pressurise them to connect. 6.6.10.2 Expansion of Sewer Services
PHED has already planned to expand its sewer services to increase connectivity to an additional 20000 citizens thereby covering 65% of the population of Gangtok. A proposal for Rs 15.8 Crore has already been sanctioned by NRCD, GOI. It is suggested that the expansion of services be carried out as per plan. Based on discussions with GWSSP and the learning from exposure visit to Delhi, Shimla etc. steps should be taken to reduce cost of manholes and manhole covers and the same capital cost could be used to cover a greater area. In the new connections to be made, permit connection of sullage water to the sewerage system. Actions required
Implement the sewerage expansion plan as early as possible. Reduce
cost of manholes by adapting cheaper but equally effective technologies.
Amend the current law to allow connecting the sullage water to the sewer. UDHD to create a focus on maintenance and regular pump out of sceptic tanks. Health department should take samples of discharge from the sceptic tanks into
Jhoras and issue notice to householders violating the norms.

The old pump out vehicle should be replaced with a new and smaller vehicle to
improve its access on narrow roads. A backpack-pumping unit should be provided to pump out sceptic tanks into the pump out vehicle from inaccessible houses.
Experiments should be conducted with bacterial additives, which have the
capacity to digest the undesirable elements of the sceptic tank effluent (refer strategy paper EEG301-G01-WS.06-01-002 for further details).
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6.6.11
Urban Transportation
The Roads and Transport sector is, without doubt, seen as one of the key sectors critical to the successful implementation of programmes in achieving the socio economic transformation in the neighboring areas of the capital town. There is a need to develop the appropriate and relevant policies and programmes to ensure fast improvement and expansion of transportation infrastructure and services so as to effectively contribute to accelerated socio-economic development levels of government, the private donor groups, and civil society in the adjoining areas of capital town. Improved road network will be a mean of access for the total development of the economy and the improvement of the livelihood of rural peoples in these areas. The vast area under the city limits of Greater Gangtok emphasises the importance of intra city transportation and regular commuting facilities. Due to the rapid economic growth in its tourism related industries during the last two decades, it is striving to manage the growing transportation requirements. The transportation network in the city area is dominated by NH-31A, which runs through the city Gangtok ideally situated to become the national and international logistics hub. In the wake of opening of the Nathula trade route to leverage this geographic advantage, the city will have to create the link infrastructure required for providing smooth traffic movements of both light and heavy goods bearing vehicles NH-5 and NH43 of the National Highway (NH) network and the State Highways connect the city area to the vast hinterland. Public transport comprises buses, which are used by 20% of the total commuters in the city and local taxis which is used by 60 % of the population A special effort has to be undertaken to provide interconnecting road links between major arteries of the city. Development of this programme would ease congestion along the NH Way and facilitate traffic to by pass crowded segments of the major roads within the city. The traffic moves faster and the roads also would help in cordoning or areas in case of fire and other disasters. The interconnectivity through a programme of new roads as well as widening and strengthening of existing new roads has to be taken up to connect the national highway passing through the city and Indira By pass road running along the western flank of the city to the city suburbs of Busuk, Rumtek, Bhojoghari, Pakyong & Ranka. Key Issues and Challenges Streamlining the heavy cargo transport. Institutional accountability Low Share of Public Transport resulting in traffic menace and environmental degradation. Integration of landuse plan and transportation planning. Inadequate Road Infrastructure narrow carriageways, junctions, signage, traffic management, etc.
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Safety Lack of awareness and non-compliance of the commuters to traffic regulations. Actions required Creating alternative roads and new links to enhance connectivity with the periurban growth magnets. Strengthening of intercity and intra city linkages such as creation of new roads and up gradation of the existing road network. Mass transport system for commuters. Since there is no particular mode that can cater to this problem, it is intended there will be several modes of mass transport such as mini bus, ropeway and sky buses if feasible. These will have to be studied in detail. Relocating and developing new commercial centres in the sub urban and periurban areas to reorient the traffic from the core city area. Provision of good signage and landmark highlighting systems. Street furniture for pedestrian users. Usage of pollution free vehicles will have to mandatory Motor vehicle rules have to be redefined with the road conditions and more stress has to be given on Mass Transport Systems. Terminal facilities such as truck and bus terminals for both intra city and intercity functions- there are no such facilities available in any of the towns of Sikkim. Localized car parks- In the existing situation cars are parked along the roads. Parking facilities are available in Gangtok but are inadequate and there is a constant pressure for creating more. See table below. To keep pace with the development activities, it has been thought appropriate in view of the deteriorated condition of the roads, to strengthen the road network and bring-up to the required standards. Further, proposal to create a kerbparking facility wherever possible and also entry and exit approaches for the ongoing parking areas are also being considered.
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Proposed Roads Existing Roads
Courtesy: Town Planning Cell, UD&HD
Map No. 13: Proposed new roads in Gangtok NTA

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Some sub projects in the roads and transportation sector have been identified to improve operational efficiencies of the existing system. These improvements are envisaged through i. strengthening of the existing priority road network in the city ii. Improvement of intersections iii. Developing of parking facilities iv. Construction of bus and truck terminals. Type Of Project Improvement of Selected Urban Roads PS Road MG Marg VIP Road JT Toad DPH Road PWD Store Road Nam Nang Road Tibet Road Denzong Cinema Road (landslip protection) Enchey Road, Chandmari Bahai School Road High Court Road Improvement of Major Intersections Zero point junction JT Marg junction PS Raod-DPH Road junction Metro point junction Deorali Bazar junction IBP junction Parking Chandmari Namnang Below Govt College to IBP Sikkim Jewels PS Road JT Road Denzong Cinema road Bahai School Road Development Area Road (Jeewan Theeng Marg) Truck /BusTerminal Ranipul Sokaythang Pedestrian foot over bridge Length (Km) 0.7 0.7 0.74 1.3 1.35 1.8 1.1 1 0.3 0.9 1 Type of Arm 3- arm 3- arm 3- arm 3- arm 3- arm 3- arm Area (Sq m) 4500 240 1250 500 800 450 670 10000 sqm 20000 sqm Proposal
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Sl. No. A
STNM Junction West of Metro point East of Metro point Near Telephone Exchange Deorali Junction Near Bansilal Petrol Pump Near Sikkim Givt College Improvements of footpaths Hospital (Tibet Road-NH31A) Footpath Development Area PNG School (Along Super market) Footpath MG Marg- NH31A footpaths Defence Cinema-NH31A footpath at Tadong Daragaon Hospital-Metro point footpath Munshi Colony footpath ending at District Court road Kazi Road-Tibet Road footpath mG Marg to Lal Bazar footpaths Tibet Road MG Marg footpaths Kazi Road- MG Marg footpath
Replacement Replacement Replacement Replacement New bridge New bridge New bridge
Sl.NO. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
NAME OF WORK Improvement of MG Marg upto Nam-Nang junction. Remodeling of MG Marg Widening & carpeting of Denzong Cinema road. Improvement & modification of Tibet Road (A+B). Improvement & modification of High Court Road. Improvement & modification of Tnaha Road. Improvement & modification of approach road to Tsuklakhang. Re-construction of culvert on approach road to Norkhil Hotel/Hill Side Gallery of Palzor Stadium. Improvement & modification of Church Road up to Old West Point School including Parking Place. Improvement & modification of Church Road from old West Point School parking place to DPH junction. Creation of Kerb-parking facility on Palzor Stadium road. RE-alignment of TNA road, Car Park and widening of
AMOUNT (RUPEES) 6869500.00 25000000.00 5127500.00 7544900.00 1699900.00 976100.00 2775400.00 1192700.00 2440700.00 4638600.00 4421600.00 14305500.00
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13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Bhanu-path below diversion point. Improvement & modification of Circular Road between Tashiling Secretariat and Ridge Road. Creation of Kerb-Parking facility on Nam-Nang Road below Sikkim Legislative Assembly. Carpetting of Approach road to Deorali Car-park. Widening & Carpetting of White Hall road. Widening & Carpetting of short by-pass road from Bhanu Path to Palace Gate/Ridge Park. Improvement of Jeewan Theeing Marg. Improvement & Modification of VIP Road at Development Area. Improvement & Modification of Approach Road to Little Angila Hostel at Development Area. Improvement of Deorali S.S. Girls School Road. Sub-Total 5% for quality DPR, Capacity building, IEC, final location survey etc (on civil work value Rs.606.07 lakhs) GRAND TOTAL Provision Of Tourist Facilities
2012500.00 2782800.00 3925100.00 4036400.00 2139200.00 7441800.00 2469500.00
699600.00 3714400.00 106213700.00 3030300.00
21
109244000.00
6.6.12
Development of a higher number of luxury hotels for high budget tourists who are expected to increase in number once the airport at Pakyong gets operational and trade with the TAR is fully established. Suitable accommodation in the form of budget hotels that cater to religious tourists in the form of dormitories. Arrangements such as Youth Hostels can be encouraged in larger numbers. Signage and tourist information centres. Development of resting places and local style refreshment units. Local food court Public Toilets Town Hall and performing arts centre
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6.6.13
Localized Marketing Centres
Gangtoks congestion will have to be curtailed with the development of alternative commercial centres in the suburban and peri urban areas. New shopping areas at the Old Food Godown and at 5th and 6th Mile areas are important to contain concentration of activities in the core business hub. Introduction of parking lots in the commercial centres alongside use of new technologies such as elevators in steep and congested areas will have to be considered. 6.6.14 Educating and Changing Attitudes/Perceptions of the Community- Strategy for Using IEC
Information Education and Communication (IEC) is a powerful tool for educating and changing the knowledge and attitudes of Gangtok citizens, Government officials, teachers, students, and a range of other stakeholders. The aim is ultimately to change behaviour, and there is evidence that some practices also change with IEC intervention.
SWOT Analysis on IEC in Gangtok

Strengths Local cable TV and newspapers reach wide audience in Gangtok Cost of production and advertising in electronic and print media is relatively low Strong community and social networks can facilitate dissemination of messages High literacy rates among men and women Presence of local professional skills, e.g. in graphic design, script writing, film making, event management Results of IEC activities of GWSSP are available to help design new IEC activities Opportunities Community highly receptive to messages through appropriate channels of communication Local skills can be developed for IEC Threats Failure to internalise the value & purpose of IEC in Government will result in lack of commitment Failure to institutionalise IEC may result in failure of reform process Weaknesses Lack of IEC capacity or activities in Government service providing institutions Limited understanding of role & functions of IEC in Government
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Actions required
GoS may consider introducing a budget item on IEC for all service-oriented
departments. Each department could present its IEC objectives as part of the annual budget exercise
IEC sensitisation and orientation training should be conducted for all GoS service
departments
IPR Department or the IEC Bureau of Dept of Health could expand their role to
become expert advisors on IEC to other GoS service departments such as PHED, UDHD, Power, etc.
Outsourcing the design and production of IEC materials to local graphic artists
and copywriters, and the organisation of IEC campaigns/events to local events organisers, would help develop these skills in Sikkim.
6.7 SECTOR GOALS AND STRATEGIES
The development strategies for each of the sector with respect to their issues have been detailed out (Table 6.2). The strategies aim at giving shape to the envisioned goals for the city. Table 6.2: Sector Goals and Strategies Sector Water Supply And Integrated Fire Fighting Network Issues Adequate quantity of water available from Rateychu UFW is more and can be a problem in near future Abandon the sources from where people use untreated water Inadequate fund to carryout repair and replacement Lack of funding Inadequate Fire Fighting System Strategies Stopping or reduction in UFW Providing 100% metering Providing water supply networking to whole of population Development of natural sources of water for other than domestic usage Phased programme for repairs and replacement Capacity building of the institution, skilled workers &at slum level Exploring the possibility of PPP Scheme in water supply Enhancing the user charge for understanding the responsibility towards natural resource Making a system less dependent on capital gains
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Sector Sewerage and Sanitation -
Issues Lack of formal assets register Lack of formal asset management plan Long-term financial plan Lack of implementation plan Lack of institutional action plan -
Strategies Increase in water supply will affect the sewer hydraulics Proper estimation of floating population as tourist Planning for segregated systems for areas of floating population as far as possible Stopping of discharge into Jhoras Proper plan for periodic replacement and repairs of old pipes and system Strict implementation of Rules and Regulation Penalties for the defaulter Capacity building of implementing authority Developing a better understanding of the situation through detailed investigation Awareness campaign to educate community for confirming the development control rules Establishing the institutional and financial mechanism Water Harvesting to be explored
Drainage
Mapping of drains in Gangtok Inflow and MFL assessment Mapping of watershed areas Documentation of landslides Awareness campaign to educate the community Improvement of efficiencies in collection Improvement in existing system for transportation of waste Treatment and disposal of waste in accordance with Solid Waste Handling Rules (SWHR)
Solid Waste Management
Source segregation of biodegradable from non-biodegradable Manual handling to be reduced Separate collection and treatment facility to be arranged for biomedical and hazardous waste Storage of waste in mechanized containers Providing personal protective equipments to sanitary workers Capacity building and educating workers
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Sector -
Issues Lack of Landfill areas Martam Landfill Area; public demand for relocation -
Strategies Awareness of community to be upgraded with the help of NGOs Employment generation aspects need to be explored Sustainability aspects need to be a given a look by corporatising its activities New links and improvement in old ones Mass transport system for commuters in the form of mono rail / LRTS / multimodal transport etc. Pollution free vehicles Pay and use rental, two and four wheelers for tourists Difficult junctions improvements Development of bus terminals Development of truck terminals. Development of parking areas for public vehicles Development of parking areas in existing residential area for private vehicles Street fixtures for pedestrian Provision of goods signage and landmarks highlighting systems Redevelopment of degraded area. Protective measures in landslide prone areas. Water body conservation. Development of embankments. Afforestation in Khasmal and Gorucharan. Afforestation for protecting the soil cover. Development of botanical garden.
Roads and Transportation -
Encroachments by vehicles Low operating speeds. Congestion in the city. Inadequate parking space. Improper traffic management Poor public transportation system Lack of pedestrian facilities Inadequate road capacity
Urban Renewal and Urban Environment
Congestion & poor infrastructure Contamination of water along down streams Conservation of Forest and Improve the Scenic Beauty Absence of parks and open recreation
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Sector
Issues spaces Absence of adequate Tourist Infrastructure -
Strategies Development and exhibition of flowering plants, gardens, picnic spots. Development of adventure sports and infrastructure development for it. Upgrading the house building condition upto the standards Upgrading the economic condition of urban poor Upgrading the social awareness towards good and hygienic living conditions Meeting the gaps in infrastructure available Providing better social infrastructure
Slum Upgradation and Public Facilities
Non-access to water supply, major water source being springs Most of the population are daily wage labourers Non-functional toilets Waste disposal to jhoras No organized employment for the slum dwellers Absence of Municipal Council Inadequate mechanism for collection of taxes and maintaining the accounts Lack of proper urban governance mechanism -
Urban Governance and Institutional Strengthening
Introduction / Amendments in legal framework (building regulations, environmental sustainability regulations etc.) Sharing responsibilities in new framework. Capacity building of authorities (GMC, UD&HD, autonomous WS & Sewerage & Drainage Agency, Transport Authority etc.) Involvement of NGO, community groups and social organizations for inducing awareness in people. Transparent functioning of parastatal body or local body. Effective accounting of local funds (introduce double entry accounting
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Sector
Issues
Strategies system). Introduction of performance based Human Resources Management System. Methods of constant monitoring and modifying the schemes. Introduction of E-Governances.
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Section 6 Vision & Strategies For The City: My Vision of Gangtok

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Section 6 Vision & Strategies For The City: My Vision of Gangtok

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City Development Plan-Gangtok City