Neglect and Political Apathy Leave Bhubaneswar’s Ward No. 19 Residents Struggling with a Dangerous Road
Bhubaneswar, February 22, 2025 – The main road in Ward No. 19, connecting Jagannath Nagar to the Puri Bypass National Highway via Bomi Khal, has been under construction for the past two months. However, instead of progress, commuters are facing increasing difficulties. Despite being a crucial route with heavy traffic, local authorities have failed to address its deteriorating condition, putting lives at risk.
Repeated pleas from residents to repair this hazardous stretch have gone unanswered. While local corporators acknowledge the issue, they merely claim to have informed the legislator, offering no tangible solutions. Even if a bill is passed for repairs, residents remain skeptical about timely action. Meanwhile, road expansion continues without proper oversight, adding to the chaos.
The pressing question remains: has the mindset of local corporators changed despite a change in government? The persistent lack of accountability suggests otherwise. Visuals from the site, particularly in front of the new construction office, highlight the road’s alarming state. Repaired just a year ago, the stretch is already in ruins, raising concerns about the quality of work and the absence of proper maintenance.
Public frustration continues to grow, with no clear resolution in sight. When questioned, the local BJP politician shifted responsibility, urging residents to take their concerns to the current BJD corporator, Nalini Kant Mohanti. This political blame game does nothing to address the urgent need for road repairs.
It appears that only a serious accident or loss of life will prompt the administration to act. Until then, the residents of Ward No. 19 remain caught in a cycle of neglect and broken promises, forced to navigate a road that continues to endanger their daily lives.
