TV
In a disturbing display of desperation and resilience, residents of Bankijhola village under Chandiput panchayat of Mohana block in Gajapati district are risking their lives everyday just to cross a flooded river, sources said on Thursday.
Also Read: Braving flood water, Anganwadi worker crosses river to reach center in Keonjhar
With no bridge or proper crossing available, people from three nearby villages – namely Bankijhola, Chadiapada, and Jakarapali – are using ropes to get across the swollen river during the monsoon season.
This perilous journey is not optional. Locals depend on ropes to reach essential services like schools, colleges, panchayat offices, medical centres, and local markets. With each rainfall, the river swells dangerously, yet the villagers, including children and the elderly, have no choice but to make use of these unstable ropes.
The situation has sparked concern, and when asked, the Gajapati District Collector stated that a detailed report has been requested from the Rural Development Department and the local BDO. Action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
This is yet another stark reminder of the infrastructural gaps in remote Odisha and the everyday dangers villagers face in accessing basic amenities.
When contacted, Gajapati Collector Ms. Madhumita stated, “I have already instructed the Rural Development Department to conduct an assessment for alternative arrangements, such as a new bridge, in case there is no bridge. The RD department will accordingly send an estimate. Similarly, the local Block Development Officer (BDO) has also been instructed.”
Worth mentioning, in an inspiring display of dedication, an Anganwadi worker from Banspal block in Keonjhar district had become the talk of the town after risking her life on July 27 this year to fulfill her duty.
The Anganwadi worker Karisma Nayak from Haladihi village under Kadakala panchayat had crossed a swollen river to reach her centre and discharge her duties.
