Gangtok, August 20: The Sikkim government is contemplating a ban on two-wheelers in restricted areas if the state cabinet approves a proposal discussed during consultations with stakeholders. This could affect motorcycle-riding tourists visiting Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Protected Area Permit (PAP) sites.
A senior official revealed that the proposal emerged during a meeting led by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, focusing on an integrated online permit system for tourism and civil aviation. Stakeholders from the tourism sector, including tour operators, transport unions, and various government officials, participated in the discussions.
Officials clarified that no restrictions on two-wheelers are currently in place. Any potential ban would require cabinet approval and further consultations with stakeholders before implementation.
The proposed measures are part of a comprehensive restructuring of the permit mechanism for RAP and PAP sites under the Sikkim Inspires Online Permit initiative. The digital system aims to incorporate features such as geo-fencing, electronic permit verification, and a checkpoint-free processing mechanism.
A key provision under consideration is that only vehicles registered in Sikkim would be allowed on RAP and PAP routes. Vehicles registered in other states would not be permitted to enter these designated areas. Consequently, tourists arriving on their private motorcycles from outside Sikkim would be unable to access RAP and PAP sites, even if a complete ban on two-wheelers is not ultimately approved.
Tourists wishing to explore restricted and protected sites on motorcycles can rent Sikkim-registered two-wheelers and drivers through authorized local operators. Officials indicated that Sikkim bike rental offices could provide such services using registered motorcycles.
The Central Home Ministry oversees the RAP and PAP arrangements under the Foreign (Protected Areas) Order of 1958. Sikkim falls under this framework, which classifies specified areas as protected or restricted. The state’s tourism and civil aviation department, in coordination with the home department, manages the permit mechanism under the central notification.
The proposed digital system aims to streamline the permit process while ensuring strict compliance with eligibility criteria for vehicles, operators, and drivers traveling to RAP and PAP destinations. The government is expected to make a final decision after considering stakeholder feedback and obtaining cabinet approval.
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