The Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) restored vehicular movement on 7.5 km long Koinpur to Burkhat pass in Cyclone Titli-hit Rayagada block of Gajapati district, which also opened road access to the famous hilly tourist destination of Mahendragiri.
Heavy rains triggered by Titli had led to flash floods in the hilly area washing away roads, disconnecting bordering Gajapati district and Brahampur in Ganjam.
A team of officials from the MCL headquarters led by General Manager (Mining/CSR) B Sairam swung into action and moved to Parlakhemundi on October 18 to participate in relief operations.
Two excavators, two loader-cum-levellers, tippers and tractor trolleys were pressed into service. The MCL team will return after handing over road to district authorities after the road strengthening work is over.