Paralakhemundi: More than seven decades after Independence, residents of four remote villages in Gajapati district remain deprived of road connectivity, forcing them to walk long and treacherous routes for essential services.
In Rayagada block, the villages of Tarabasing, Jhulasahi, Surangi, and Asangala—home to over 600 people—still lack motorable road access. A proposed 8-km road meant to connect these villages has been pending for more than 50 years, leaving the communities isolated.
Ambulances cannot reach the villages. Pregnant women and critically ill patients face life-threatening delays. Children walk long distances over steep, dangerous paths to attend school, often sustaining injuries, said locals Dutiya Rait, Sundar Sabar, and Namita Rait.
Also Read: Odisha: Rain claims two lives in Gajapati district, two missing
Villagers said that while government officials frequently visit the area, the project has never taken off. Frustrated by decades of neglect, many families have already migrated to nearby Rayagada, Narayanpur, and Paralakhemundi areas in search of better access to education and healthcare.
Rayagada block development officer (BDO) Sanyat Barik said that earlier attempts to build the road under the MGNREGA scheme had failed. The project has since been transferred to the Rural Development department and is awaiting approval. “Once clearance is granted, construction will begin,” Barik added.
PNN
