Possibility of auto-rickshaw's operation in Kalimpong

Recent plying of auto-rickshaw in Gangtok, located over 5000 feet ASL, has generated enthusiasm among the hill people on the possibility of its movement in neighbouring regions also. Kalimpong, which is located at lower height than Gangtok i.e. on about 4000 ft ASL, could very soon experience similar movement of auto-rickshaw in the town, the local people hope. Earlier one private auto-rickshaw popularly called tempo used to ferry the township. It also used to reach Dr. Graham's Homes hill which is situated at an elevation of more than 4500 feet. Presently, a few three tier mini-tata also use to visit Kalimpong from Siliguri. Hence the possibility of commercial running of this three tier mini cab has gone up in the town. Since the cost of petrol has gone up and local passengers have already started to prefer share taxis for their short journeys, now the time has come to start auto-rickshaw services in the town soon, said Dilip Ranjan Biswa, a local taxi owner and driver. If it is so then I have to give a serious thought to change the mode of conveyance in future, he added. According to the educated people, it would be a best step if the local cab drivers opt to shift their business towards scientifically devised modern tempo services which are eco-friendly (pollution free to some extent) and cheaper than vehicle. They believe if the local people and administration support this idea then Kalimpong will become a auto-rickshaw hub in future. Local passengers would definitely prefer to take ride of this service instead of existing local taxi service which is costlier.

It is recalled that recently a group of foreigners had visited Gangtok, capital of himalayan state, on auto-rickshaw and they had not felt any difficulties in climbing the high terrain from Singtam to Gangtok. If it could happen in Gangtok why not in Kalimpong? Local people have started to gossip. Now it is upto the local administration and transporters to think for change in the hill town. If they start this new venture then smooth plying of tempo from Kalimpong town towards Algarah, Lava, Gorubathan, Rhenock, Teesta, Melli, Rangpo, Durpin, Bongbusty etc. by accomodating 5-6 passengers could easily materialised, say the experienced persons of the field.