Mahatma Gandhi Marg | |
---|---|
Neighbourhood in Gangtok | |
Coordinates: 27°19′43.68″N 88°36′44.24″E / 27.3288000°N 88.6122889°E | |
Country | India |
State | Sikkim |
District | East Sikkim |
City | Gangtok |
Government | |
• Body | Gangtok Municipal Corporation |
Languages | |
• Official | Sikkimese, Nepali, Hindi |
Time zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
PIN | 737101 |
Website | www |
Mahatma Gandhi Marg is the main pedestrian road located in the downtown Gangtok, Sikkim.[1]
History
In 2008, the North Eastern Council under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region undertook the project of “Upgradation and Remodelling of existing distribution system of Mahatma Gandhi Road and its surrounding areas, Gangtok.”[2]
As of 2015, Mahatma Gandhi Marg is the only road in Gangtok which has divided carriageway.[3]
Overview
MG Road stands as the pulsating heart of Gangtok, a vibrant and bustling locale. Serving as the primary shopping district in the charming state capital, MG Road boasts an array of shops, restaurants, and hotels flanking its sides. This open-air mall or boulevard square is widely recognized as the town center and proves to be a premier shopping haven for tourists. Whether one wishes to leisurely stroll or simply bask in the diverse ambiance, MG Road offers an excellent setting.
Upon entering this approximately 1 km stretch, one is immediately struck by its pristine condition. Signboards proclaiming "Welcome to M.G. Marg, Spit, and Litter Free Zone" are scattered throughout. The entire area is meticulously maintained, devoid of smoke, litter, and vehicular traffic, as it operates solely as a pedestrian zone. Embracing the government's green initiative, the buildings on both sides of MG Road are adorned in green hues. Noteworthy is the Gangtok Food and Culture Festival, a December extravaganza that attracts enthusiasts from far and wide.
Dominating MG Road is the Statue of Unity, featuring figures like Bhutia Chieftain Khye Bumsa, Lepcha leader Thetong Tek, and his wife Ngo Kong ngol, promoting themes of peace, love, and harmony. Midway stands an impressive statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Adding to the charm are Victorian lamps and numerous benches along the pathway. After nightfall, MG Road transforms with illuminated lights, making it a popular spot in this quaint hill town of Gangtok.[4]
In popular culture
- "MG Rodaima", a song about the road, from the 2019 film Hajar Juni Samma[5]
Gallery
- Sikkim Tourism's office at Mahatma Gandhi Marg (2010)
- Daytime view of Mahatma Gandhi Marg (2012)
- President Pranab Mukherjee garlanding the statue of Mahatma Gandhi (2013)
- Night-time view of Mahatma Gandhi Marg (2013)
- The Hindu festival of Holi being celebrated at Mahatma Gandhi Marg. (2014)
- The statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the street's entrance (2018)
- Daytime view of Mahatma Gandhi Marg (2018)
- Daytime view of Mahatma Gandhi Marg (2018)
Landmarks
See also
References
- ↑ "Mahatma Gandhi Marg, M.G.Marg | Film Facilitation Office". ffo.gov.in. Retrieved 7 September 2021.
- ↑ "NEC UC Portal(Reports)". necucportal.nic.in. Retrieved 7 September 2021.
- ↑ Comprehensive Mobility Plan: Gangtok (PDF). Urban Development Department, Government of Sikkim. 2015.
- ↑ "MG Road, Gangtok".
- ↑ "New Nepali film dedicates song to Sikkim's iconic MG Marg". EastMojo. 24 April 2019. Retrieved 21 January 2023.