PHULBANI (Kandhamal):
The commuting conditions on the Gadiapada Ghat winding road, a crucial and busy route connecting Khajuripada with the Phulbani region in Kandhamal district, have turned extremely hazardous. The cave-in of the roadside along with massive potholes caused by deteriorating pitch has left hundreds of daily commuters and local residents in a state of constant panic. The heartbreaking and dilapidated state of this hilly curve has sparked widespread public resentment over administrative apathy.
.jpeg)
Treacherous Turn Turns into a Death Trap
According to eyewitnesses and local commuters, this specific blind curve on the Gadiapada Ghat is exceptionally narrow. Because the roadside is heavily damaged, drivers coming from opposite directions often fail to see each other until the last moment. Heavy vehicles, passenger buses, and motorcyclists face the constant threat of losing balance and plunging down the valley due to the broken edges of the road. The stretch becomes a virtual death trap at night and during rainy weather when visibility drops.
Urgent Demand for Repairs to Avert Tragedies
"If immediate and permanent repair work is not undertaken on this dangerous stretch, a major fatal accident is waiting to happen," warned local residents. They emphasized that timely intervention could easily prevent potential loss of lives and property. To minimize the risk of accidents, locals have demanded the construction of a robust guard wall along the valley side, alongside the immediate filling and carpeting of the potholes.
Appeal to the Phulbani Public Works Department (PWD)
The general public has strongly urged the higher authorities of the Phulbani Public Works Department (PWD) to look into this sensitive matter immediately. Commuters are demanding that departmental officials inspect the spot and initiate repair work on a war footing to ensure safe passage for vehicles. It now remains to be seen how quickly the district administration and PWD officials respond to this pressing public safety concern.