Sambalpur: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has planned to construct an independent slope at Lakshmidunguri. Earlier, a tunnel was proposed for the area, but due to feasibility issues, an alternative solution has been adopted.
The independent slope will be built over a stretch of approximately 900 meters, with an estimated cost of around Rs15 crore. NHAI project director Prem Narayan Sahu stated that, due to the presence of both the national highway and a railway track near the hills, constructing a tunnel was not feasible. Frequent landslides in the region have caused major transportation disruptions, prompting authorities to take steps toward constructing the slope as a solution.
To ensure a well-planned approach, IIT Bhubaneswar conducted an independent survey, and based on the survey report, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared and submitted for approval.
A Critical Route Facing Frequent Landslides
The Mumbai-Kolkata National Highway passes through Sambalpur, connecting it with Bargarh, Balangir, and other remote regions. The stretch near the Mahanadi bridge and Lakshmidunguri hill serves as a key entry point to Sambalpur city, witnessing thousands of vehicles daily, including heavy trucks and passenger vehicles.
However, landslides near Lakshmidunguri have become a common occurrence, especially during the monsoon season, causing severe disruptions to traffic. A major landslide in September 2007 halted transportation for nearly 17 hours. Similarly, landslides in August 2017 and August 2022 led to significant traffic issues. On multiple occasions, rocks and debris from the hills have fallen onto the national highway, making travel hazardous.
For years, locals and stakeholders have been demanding an alternative solution to address the recurring issue. Several surveys and proposals were made in the past. At one point, NHAI announced plans to construct a tunnel, but despite years of discussions, the project never materialized.
Now, the NHAI has decided to construct an independent slope using advanced engineering techniques. Preparations for the project are complete, and once the necessary departmental approvals are obtained, the tendering process will begin, according to NHAI PD Shri Sahu.