Continuous rainfall hampers Kalinga Ghat landslide repair in Kandhamal

Kandhamal (Odisha): Restoration work at Kalinga Ghat in Kandhamal district, the site of a major landslide, continues to face severe setbacks as continuous rainfall hampers progress, even a month after the disaster.

According to reports, frequent spells of rain have repeatedly disrupted construction activities, making it difficult for repair teams to stabilise the affected stretch. Officials said restoration work is being carried out round the clock, with workers toiling day and night to expedite repairs.

Authorities expect that once concrete works are completed within the next four days, light and small vehicles will be allowed to ply through the ghat section safely.

The Kalinga Ghat, a vital lifeline connecting the Kandhamal and Ganjam districts, witnessed a massive landslide following heavy rains, leading to widespread disruption and raising serious concerns over connectivity and commuter safety.

The situation worsened after a cloudburst on September 22, when torrential rain washed away parts of the road and damaged ongoing repair works. Intense runoff from the surrounding hills swept away construction materials such as stones, sand, and gravel, leaving the site in disarray and completely cutting off road communication between the two districts.

Also Read: Kalinga Ghat road washed away again after cloudburst, connectivity disrupted in Kandhamal

Earlier, heavy rainfall had triggered multiple landslides in the region, loosening soil on the slopes and sending huge boulders and debris crashing onto the road, stranding vehicles on both sides. Commuters were forced to wait for hours as rescue and clearance operations were launched amid difficult weather conditions.

Officials said the district administration is closely monitoring the situation, with a focus on ensuring complete restoration and long-term stability of the crucial ghat section.