Malkangiri : As preparations for the upcoming Rath Yatra are underway and a new chariot has been constructed in Kalimela after many years, the surrounding environment tells a different story. Despite daily presence of block administration and panchayat officials in the area, floating garbage continues to pile up in front of the Jagannath Temple in Kalimela.
Local residents have lodged repeated complaints, but no concrete action has been taken so far. As a result, mosquitoes, flies, and other disease-spreading organisms have infested the area. While both the Central and State Governments stress the importance of public health and cleanliness, such efforts seem completely absent in Kalimela block.
Unless the general public becomes more aware and active, whether in villages or towns, such places will remain clogged with unmanaged waste. Although Kalimela is considered one of the more developed blocks of Malkangiri district, the current situation presents a stark contrast. From the weekly market area to other public spots, heaps of garbage are visibly floating around.
Locals have now demanded that, with the rainy season approaching, the drainage systems be cleaned immediately so that garbage no longer accumulates or floats in Kalimela.