Puri, 16th Sept 2025: The 16 km-long Public Works Department (PWD) road from Atalapur to Bahabalpur under Rasulpur Block is in a deplorable condition. While the section of the road from National Highway 16 to Atalapur (Eastern side) has been upgraded, the portion from Suansahi (Western side) to Bahabalpur is filled with potholes and slush.
The parts of the road that pass through Bhotka, Rahamba, and Badakaainchi panchayats have been severely affected. Due to the lack of drainage along the road, rainwater is accumulating and flowing over the road, obstructing public transportation.
Heavy rainfall caused by a low-pressure system has led to standing water on the PWD road. Even a week after the rains, water continues to flow over the road near Vaidasahi and Sanaramei under Bhotka Panchayat. The stagnant water has led to the rotting of plants and foul smell in the area.
The local residents are water-logged and facing hardship. Regarding this issue, BJP Panchayat President Naresh H., youth leader Yashobanta Das, and Ashok Malik had informed BDO Satyananda Das, local sarpanch Smrutirekha Raut, and the PWD office at Gopalpur.
The BDO took the complaint seriously and advised the sarpanch to use pumps to drain the water. For two days, efforts were made to pump out the rainwater, but it could not be completely drained from the road. Later, with departmental initiative, JCB machines were used to clear debris and create an outlet for water discharge.
However, local residents are now demanding the immediate construction of a proper drainage system in the affected area. They have warned that if the department continues to ignore the issue, the villagers will be forced to block the road in protest.