Koraput, 19th Sept 2025: The traffic system in Koraput town is becoming increasingly chaotic day by day. Traffic is regulated only at the main Traffic Square and the road connecting to the Police Headquarters. However, traffic violations are visible in various busy parts of the town. At some places, even though traffic signal posts exist in name, no one actually follows them. Frequent minor and major accidents are resulting in the loss of lives.
There is no proper or permanent system for vehicle parking in the market area. Two-wheelers are often parked in the middle of the road. Autorickshaws enter the market area freely, which is affecting the daily commuters. Four-wheelers are also being taken into the market illegally. Earlier, the town police station was located near the market, which created a sense of discipline. After its relocation, traffic problems in the area have worsened.
The public is demanding a complete ban on vehicle entry inside the market. Years ago, the then officer-in-charge of the town police station had enforced such a rule. To improve the traffic situation, certain congested areas will need dedicated arrangements. For example, the road from the Post Office Square to the Cinema Hall has hotels and liquor shops on both sides. This stretch remains crowded almost every day. When customers park vehicles on both sides while dining, it causes complete road blockage.
Similarly, the road from the Post Office to the Mosque is often congested, leading to traffic jams. Hundreds of schoolchildren commute along this route daily, and during that time, tractors, highways trucks, and tippers are also moving. Even ambulances pass through this stretch. In such risky conditions, parents are forced to escort their children across the road.
Important offices like SBI, two other banks, and the LIC office are also located within the town. Heavy crowds gather when these offices open, causing further chaos. Due to banks being on both sides of the road, customers face a lot of inconvenience. The roads connecting from Kalaniketan and Municipality Square have become dangerous due to frequent accidents.
The town hosts several district-level offices, including the District Collector’s Office, the Court, and ITDA. Hundreds of vehicles move in and out of these locations every day. Advocates have demanded immediate reforms to the town’s traffic management.
During evening hours, the stretch from the Sub-Collector’s Office Square to Jagannath Temple Square is heavily crowded. People park vehicles in the middle of the road to eat at fast food stalls. Unregulated mobile fast food vendors have occupied road space, disrupting traffic. Ambulances (like 108 services) and even the Superintendent of Police’s vehicle frequently use this road.
There is rising public frustration as even VIP routes suffer from unmanaged traffic. The area between Traffic Square and Mausi Maa Temple Square also faces constant traffic issues. People are demanding a permanent solution, especially the installation of traffic signals at Batamangala Square.
Intellectuals, lawyers, and general citizens of the town are demanding that the police administration immediately bring order and improvement to the town’s traffic system.