Neglected NAC road in Keonjhar turns hazardous, residents demand immediate repair

A crucial road stretch under Champua NAC in Odisha ’s Keonjhar district has turned dangerous due to prolonged neglect, leaving daily commuters struggling and raising serious safety concerns among residents. The road connecting Ramla to Panchapokharia has remained in a severely damaged condition for several years. Marked by large potholes and scattered loose metal chips, the stretch has become difficult to navigate for both vehicles and pedestrians. The nearly two-kilometre road has lost most of its tar surface, making it almost unusable. Residents Flag Poor Condition Locals have repeatedly voiced concern over the deteriorating condition of the road , alleging a lack of action despite multiple appeals to authorities. Expressing frustration, resident Sukadev Buliuli said, “Our Ramla road is in a dilapidated condition. Ministers’ homes are here; they have become MPs and MLAs, but the road has still not been repaired. There are schools and colleges, development has taken place in other areas, but why are the roads not developed yet? Another resident, Ratnakar Purty, highlighted the road’s importance, saying, “This road connects Champua’s Ward No. 12 to Panchapokharia and then to the main road. We cannot even call it a road anymore. It is difficult to walk. There are schools, colleges, and hostels, and many people use this road every day. We want the government and administration to pay attention.” Repeated Complaints, No Action Yet Former counsellor Dharanidhar Naik said the issue has been raised multiple times, but no concrete steps have been taken so far. “Repeated complaints have been made, and this road needs immediate repair. The present counsellors are also taking up the matter with higher authorities and demanding action. Our former MP is from this area, but still nothing has been done,” he said. Authorities Assure Action Acknowledging the poor condition, Champua NAC Executive Officer Jagannath...