Joda/Bhadrasahi: Incessant rain triggered a landslide at Barabanka ghat on National Highway 520 in Kendujhar district, blocking one side of the highway and disrupting vehicular movement.
A truck travelling along the stretch narrowly escaped impact with the falling earth, according to locals Monday. The landslide is reportedly the first such incident at Barabanka ghat, where road construction and mining activity have contributed to soil erosion, according to local residents. Several other stretches in the area are also considered vulnerable to landslides.
Residents alleged that adequate safety barriers have not been installed along vulnerable sections of the highway. During heavy rain, runoff carries soil and debris onto the road, disrupting traffic and posing a risk to motorists.
They urged the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to identify vulnerable stretches and install protective barriers to prevent further landslides and ensure the safety of road users.