Massive public resentment is brewing up among the people of Cuttack city over the dilapidated conditions of the city roads, which are now in a shambles due to laying up of a new sewerage and drainage system for the city.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has taken up the Rs 715-crore project in the city more than five years ago, and while revamping the sewerage and drain pipes, it has now dug up all roads converting them into virtual deathtraps in the ongoing monsoon season.
“Although the Orissa High Court in clear terms had directed not to undertake any JICA work in the city during monsoon, the JICA is violating the HC order with impunity,” alleges city Congress president Md Moquim, adding that the district administration as well as the local civic authorities are also nonchalant to commuters’ woes.
While the Congress on Thursday staged a massive protest over the problem, another State-level body also picketed in front of the office of the district Collector here demanding immediate repair of the city roads. Sources said several civil societies and voluntary organisations of the city are planning to launch a city-wide agitation over the issue.
Due to the damaged roads, the city is witnessing frequent accidents every day. At least three persons have already lost their lives falling into the potholes on the roads. The roads, particularly at College Square, Ranihat, railway station and eastern parts of the city in Mahanadi Vihar, Chauliaganj, Nuabazar, Bidyadharpur, NRRI and Bhadimul and Kanheipur are in a shambles.