Pathetic Condition of Karlakot–Dargaon Bandhapada Road: Muddy Stretch Makes Walking Difficult, Disrupts Daily Life

Boden, July 7: Following continuous rainfall, the condition of the vital road connecting Patelpada in Karlakot to Bandhapada in Dargaon under Boden Block has deteriorated drastically. The road has turned into a muddy stretch, making transportation almost impossible. Even a brief spell of rain transforms the road into a paddy field-like condition, causing immense hardship to local residents. The entire surface of the road is covered with thick mud, with deep tyre ruts and uneven patches making movement extremely risky. There is a constant danger of pedestrians slipping while walking, leaving elderly people, women, and schoolchildren the worst affected. Not only motorcycles, but even four-wheelers find it difficult and unsafe to pass through the road. This road serves as an important link for hundreds of tourists visiting the Tikhali tourist destination every day. It is also frequently used by school students, farmers, traders, and local residents. Moreover, the road connects NH-353 with the Biju Expressway, making it a strategically important route. The presence of the Karlakot Bank along this road further increases daily traffic, as customers regularly use this route for banking services. According to local residents, the problem recurs every monsoon due to the lack of permanent road repairs. They alleged that the road has been neglected for years, and its condition continues to worsen. People also expressed concern that emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire tenders would find it extremely difficult to reach the area during emergencies. Demanding immediate intervention, the villagers have urged the district administration and the concerned department to undertake urgent repair and permanent construction of the road. They believe that timely action would not only ease the suffering of the public during the rainy season but also prevent accidents and ensure safe connectivity for residents, students, commuters, and visitors alike.