A Broad Road with a Narrow Development

We have been witnessing a great deal of progress in Western Odisha specially in the districts of Sundargarh, Jharsuguda & Sambalpur with upgradation of road. Of late, the State Highway-10 is being upgraded to 4 lanes connecting Rourkela and Sambalpur. The ride is seamless - an amazing experience for the commuters and has added a feather in the administration’s hat. We all know that ‘Roads are the wheels of development’ as it will surely save ample time and fuel for the transport. If the lane discipline as planned is maintained, the accident rate is likely to reduce. Incidental developments will get a boost. These benefits will favour mostly the commuters.

However, this development does have a negative impact - it will increase pollution (both air and noise) due to increase in the number of vehicles. Though roadside plantation is in progress to compensate this, it may take years together for the saplings to grow into trees. The local population – mostly comprising Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC & STs) will face the severe inconvenience of crossing road from the either side. Farmers residing on both the sides of highway have to constantly cross the busy road for cultivation, harvesting, cattle grazing etc. Limited underpasses and fly overs are built at few places for 180 KM stretch without taking into consideration the number of villages, schools falling on this 180 KM stretch. A major safety drawback for the school and college children is looming. There should be a skywalk or underpass for every school or college beside the highway; but this doesn’t seem to be the reality at the moment. Another nightmare for the local farmers is their livestocks crossing the road for grazing. Already there are numerous accidents now and then with cattle’s crossing roads and with very few underpasses the current situation is going to aggravate even more.

The administration is required to take adequate measures to lower the air and noise pollution due to emission from heavy transportation. Ample underpasses and fly-overs should be planned and constructed for the safety & convenience of students, farmers and livestocks.

Is this the road we all stand in need of?

Can this road be “the Road Extending Development for All?”

File photos of road construction: