The residents of as many as seven Panchayats under Kujang block on Friday resorted to a Rail Roko at the Phatepur level crossing on Cuttack- Paradip line demanding a full phase railway gate with a guard.
Earlier, the Railways had constructed a tunnel at the spot avoiding a check gate, but the tunnel has become unused. The residents alleged that no approach road has been built connecting the tunnel and a light drizzle even creates flooding in the tunnel. As a result, during rainy days, ambulance and fire tenders are restricted from passing through the tunnel. “So, we demand a railway gate and appointment of a guard,” demanded the agitators.
Senior officials from Khurda Division railway accompanied by Kujanga Revenue Officer and police rushed to the spot and held discussion with the agitators.
The railway officials assured the villagers that the issue would be taken up with the Chief Commercial Manager (railway) and a meeting in this regard would be convened very soon. After getting a written assurance, the agitators called off the stir. Normalcy was restored after five hours.