Boudh: People of nearly 30 villages including Kantamal in Boudh district are having sleepless nights as large chunks of landmass is now being consumed by Tel river.
The residents stare at an uncertain future with the river marauding the region and triggering floods every year. Sources said the Tel river is advancing by 30 to 40 meters while no step is being taken by administration to strengthen the embankments.
Though embankments were constructed at some vulnerable places, the structures are now in dilapidated condition owing to substandard work.
The locals residents alleged that they had demanded for urgent measures, but the district administration is yet to act on the sensitive issue.
"The embankment is getting washed away by the river every year and we have to face problems particularly during rainy season. Though 40 years have passed, strengthening of the embankment is yet to be done. Moreover, some contractors have duped the money," alleged Kuber Rana, a resident of Ghantapada.
"The river is gradually washing away the shore and has come close to the village now. Though the government is sanctioning huge amount of money but the funds only go to the pockets of contractors. If the embankment is repaired on time, the villages could be saved from such threats," said Ghatapada sarpanch, Jitendra Dehuri
Kantamal MLA, Mahidhar Rana said, "A ring road will be built along Tel river that will extend up to the stretch of Mahanadi river with proper stone packing. It will prevent the flood water to enter the area."
Boudh Collector Madhusudan Mishra said, "We have identified all the vulnerable points alongside the river. However, the entire area needs to be guarded by an embankment. A protection wall will be immediately constructed and a proposal in this regard has been sent to concerned department."