Umerkote, 15th Sept 2025: On the main road connecting Umerkote and Raighar in Nabarangpur district, there is a nala (stream) near Banipadar Chhak leading towards Banipadar village. Even with moderate rainfall, the water level in the stream rises up to 5 feet, completely cutting off the route.
As a result, residents of nearly 10 villages under Kursi and Tahara gram panchayats of Umerkote block are facing severe problems — local villagers have raised serious concerns.
This road is the only route for locals to access education, healthcare, and the Raighar market. When the stream overflows, even ambulances are forced to take a 40-kilometer detour via Umerkote or Raighar to reach hospitals.
The worst affected are college students who commute to Raighar for education. When the stream floods, they are unable to attend classes, disrupting their studies.
Villagers from Nangaguda, Dhundibeda, Dahadamal, Bhaluguda, and Bonipadar have strongly demanded the immediate construction of a bridge in the area to solve this long-standing problem.