Gangtok: The West Point Mall, a controversial 14-storey structure in Sikkim, has faced widespread criticism for its immense size, raising concerns among Arithang residents living downhill from the mall who fear potential damage to the township.
On Sunday, Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay, along with the state government, collectively inaugurated the mall’s multi-level car parking, foot overbridges connecting the mall with MG Marg, and unveiled the plaque of West Point Mall.
The inauguration kicked off with the West Point Sarathi Run 2024, becoming a significant event in Gangtok on Sunday, featuring celebrity runner Milind Soman alongside participants from Kenya, Ethiopia, and Nepal. The 10 km run, which also saw the active participation of Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay and his cabinet of ministers and MLAs, aimed to promote fitness in the state and was dedicated to Sikkim’s drivers.
The West Point Sarathi 10 km Run, starting from West Point to Burtuk and culminating at the main venue, included male and female categories. Additionally, a 3-km Fun Run took place, with the Chief Minister also participating.
Addressing concerns during the multi-level car parking inauguration, Chief Minister Golay acknowledged the criticism surrounding the 14-storey structure and reassured Arithang residents that their homes downhill from the mall would be insured.
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He stated, “The West Point Mall has been designed to withstand a 7 Richter scale earthquake. Prior to construction, thorough soil testing was conducted with experts from IITs assessing the structure’s feasibility. Although the mall has 14 storeys, its weight is equivalent to that of a 10-storey structure, reduced by 40 percent. Residents of Arithang township will have their homes insured if they feel the structure is unsafe. All connecting roads will be kept clear.”
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