TV
Traffic movement on National Highway 520 came to a halt after a landslide struck the Koida-Chunaghati stretch in Odisha’s Sundargarh district. The road, considered the lifeline of the region’s mining activities, was blocked as large rocks, soil, and trees came crashing down from the adjacent hillside following continuous rainfall. The incident caused a major disruption to vehicular movement on the Koida-Rajamunda route.
Boulders, Trees Crumble Onto Highway
According to reports, incessant rain led to the landslide. The impact was reported to be intense, causing massive boulders and uprooted trees to slide directly onto the highway, rendering it unusable for several hours. The debris also caused visible cracks on the roadside guard wall, adding to the safety concerns.
Movement Of Essential Services Hit
The blocked stretch serves as a vital corridor for large transport vehicles and emergency services, including ambulances travelling to Rourkela. The disruption not only hampered daily movement but also posed a risk to critical services operating in the region.
Recurring Risk Raises Alarm
This is not the first such incident reported on NH 520. Regular landslides triggered by incessant rainfall have made the road increasingly unsafe for travel. Despite regular clearing of debris by authorities, the problem persists as fresh landslides continue to deposit rubble on the road.
NHAI Clears Debris
Upon receiving information about the landslide, the NHAI initiated immediate clearance operations and removed the debris from the blocked section. However, with the fear of more landslides looming in Chunaghati, locals have urged NHAI to take urgent and long-term preventive steps.
