Narendra Raut, a prominent figure in Koraput, has raised concerns over the ongoing construction of National Highway 26. The expansion project, which has been in the works for years, has caused major disruptions for the local community, including residents, commuters, and business owners. The announcement of widening NH-26 was made several decades ago, soon after the establishment of the Sunabeda Municipality.
Funding for the project was allocated to various departments at the district level, including the National Highways Authority of India for road construction, the Electricity Division for street lighting, and the PHD Division for drainage and bridges. The proposed plan included a 72-feet-wide double-lane road from NALCO Chowk to the bus stand, along with extensions and drainage on both sides, to be completed in two phases. Despite the efforts of local MLAs from Pottangi and Koraput, it was not until the matter was brought to the attention of the Urban Development Minister and the District Collector that construction finally began. However, progress has been slow, with work only being done on one side of the road from NALCO Chowk to Ganga Maa Mandir before abruptly stopping.
The delay has caused frustration among the community, as confirmed by Municipal Chairman Rajendra Patro, who is constantly approached by residents, commuters, and traders demanding a speedy completion of the project. He expressed his disappointment, stating that despite assurances from the NH division, there has been no progress.
One senior citizen of Semiliguda, who has been eagerly awaiting the completion of the road for years, shared his dismay. He stated that the promise of a better road was made even before his children had grown up, and now his grandchildren are facing the same issues of dust, traffic jams, and accidents. Local business owners also shared similar concerns, with one trader near the bus stand revealing that their daily sales have significantly dropped due to the traffic and poor road conditions. Another businessman added that the ongoing construction has not only affected their business but also their health, as the dust and blocked drains pose a threat. The community is now urging authorities to intervene and resume the expansion project without any further delays.
The situation has been covered by Orissa POST, the leading English daily in Odisha, highlighting the pressing need for the completion of the NH-26 expansion. It is evident that the completion of this project is crucial for the well-being and development of the community in Koraput, and prompt action is required to address the ongoing issues.
