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 Behera said the road is a priority and steps are being taken. “The road is in a very bad condition. The Ramla–Panchapokharia stretch is very important as it serves an education hub with several schools. A large number of people use this road daily. I have already written to the administration, and work will begin once approval is received,” he stated. Also Read: Rourkela Steel plant expansion raises fear of displacement among locals Locals Seek Early Repair With no immediate repair work visible on the ground, residents continue to face daily inconvenience and risk. Locals have urged the administration to expedite approval and begin repair work at the earliest to ensure safe commuting and prevent accidents .