Road Built by Works Department Turns into Accident Trap (!)

E Ranjan

Kukudakhandi/Berhampur:The road connecting Jagadalpur to Ratanpur under Kukudakhandi block on the outskirts of Berhampur has become a major accident-prone stretch due to its poor condition. Constructed a few years ago by the Berhampur Works Division-II, the road is now riddled with large potholes and damaged sections, allegedly because of irregularities in construction. As a result, minor and major accidents are occurring almost every day.

Within just two years of its construction, several large potholes have developed along the road, posing a serious threat to commuters. Residents say even a brief moment of distraction while driving can lead to fatal accidents. The situation worsens during the monsoon, as rainwater fills the potholes, making them difficult for motorists and cyclists to detect.

During his visit to the village on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Siddhant Mohapatra, MLA of Digapahandi, was informed about the road’s deplorable condition by local youths. The matter was also brought to the attention of Nibedita Sethi, the Executive Engineer of the Works Department.

Although Ms. Sethi assured the villagers that repair work would be taken up soon, residents allege that no contractor has yet visited the site, and the road continues to endanger the lives of commuters.