'NH 53 has turned into a death trap in Jajpur': Locals stage protest, seek Odisha CM's intervention

Hundreds of local residents on Monday took to the streets in protest over the alleged delay in the expansion work of National Highway 53 and the construction of a second bridge over the Brahmani River. The demonstration, spearheaded by the Sachetana Nagarika Mancha, a forum of conscious citizens, saw active participation from both local residents and students, expressing their discontent near Kabatband Bridge under Jenapur police limits in Jajpur’s Dharmasala block.

The protesters alleged that due to the tardy progress of the National Highway construction work, several accidents have occurred, leading to numerous fatalities. They demanded speedy construction work. The protesters also warned that they would continue their demonstration till they receive a written assurance from the national highway authorities.

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“Chandikhole-Duburi portion of the National Highway 53 has turned into a death trap. There are gross violations of road safety norms. We are staging the demonstration with seven key demands including widening of the National Highway, written assurance as to when it will complete, traffic system for safe commute of college students and the illumination of the Brahmani bridge,” said Saroj Kumar Behera, convenor of the Sachetan Nagarika Mancha.

“All including local residents and college students today participated in the demonstration and requested the Chief Minister, the Prime Minister and the President of India to consider their demands,” he added. 

The Mancha, representing the community's collective frustration, has placed a strong emphasis on seeking timely interventions to prevent further tragedies from occurring on the unfinished roadway. 

Accusations of negligence have been directed at the authorities responsible for the management and acceleration of the highway project. The urgency of the residents' call for action underscores the community's reliance on the highway not only for daily commutes but also for economic activities.

“We have been fighting against the road construction work moving at a snail pace. Why is the portion from Chandikhole to Duburi getting delayed? Why are we subjected to step-motherly treatment? Our demands are genuine and they include widening of the road and construction of the second Brahmani bridge,” said Pankaj Malla, adviser of Sachetan Nagarika Mancha.