Cuttack: A key stretch connecting Press Chowk to Madhupatna, running adjacent to NH-16, has turned into a nightmare for commuters, with umpteen potholes and deep craters making the road virtually unmotorable. The deteriorating condition of the road has triggered growing resentment among residents and commuters, who alleged that the authorities have remained indifferent despite repeated complaints.The stretch is a crucial lifeline for residents and commuters travelling among Khannagar, Khapuria, CNBT, Kalyan Nagar and Rajabagicha. It also serves as an important access route to Orissa high court and the Cuttack collectorate.In many places, the craters are so deep that vehicles are forced to slow down abruptly or swerve into the path of oncoming traffic.Commuters said cars frequently get stuck or suffer damage while negotiating the battered surface.“Every day, we see vehicles struggling to cross this stretch. During peak hours, motorists have to drive through potholes while trying to avoid each other. Surprisingly, such a busy road has been allowed to deteriorate to this extent,” says Santosh Das, a commuter.Pradip Sahoo, a resident of Press Chowk, says the road has become particularly dangerous for two-wheeler riders. “At night, the potholes are difficult to spot. A slight loss of balance can lead to an accident. The authorities should not wait for a major mishap before repairing the road,” he says.Jitendra Rout, a resident of Madhupatna, says waterlogging in parts of the stretch had aggravated the damage and accelerated the formation of craters. “We are surprised how the authorities have closed their eyes on such an important stretch,” adds Rout.Mohd Shahbaz, superintending engineer of works department, Cuttack, while admitting the situation, says a team has been formed to inspect the affected stretch. Necessary repairs and pothole filling will be taken up within a week, adds Shahabaz.Commuters have urged the authorities to undertake comprehensive resurfacing rather than merely filling individual potholes, saying repeated temporary repairs have failed to provide a lasting solution. Commuter Elina Pradhan says the road needs proper resurfacing instead of temporary filling of potholes.Another major concern is the presence of two large fish markets along the stretch, which generate substantial commercial traffic. From late night to early morning, heavy trucks carrying fish regularly use the road to load and transport consignments. The movement of these heavy vehicles on an already-damaged stretch is further aggravating the road condition, while adding to traffic congestion.
