CUTTACK: A vital link adjoining NH-16 running from Press Chowk to Madhupatna has developed numerous potholes and deep craters, making the stretch hazardous and increasingly difficult to negotiate for motorists and two-wheeler riders, residents and commuters said. The road serves as an important artery for localities including Khannagar, Khapuria, CNBT, Kalyan Nagar and Rajabagicha and provides access to the Orissa High Court and the Cuttack collectorate.
Commuters report regular vehicle damage and risks at night
Commuters and residents described daily struggles on the battered surface. In several places the craters are so deep that drivers are forced to slow down abruptly or swerve into oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of collisions. Vehicles have reportedly become stuck and suffered damage while attempting to cross the stretch.
“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,”a commuter, Santosh Das, said.
Residents highlighted particular danger for two-wheeler riders after sundown when potholes are difficult to spot.
“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,”Pradip Sahoo of Press Chowk said. Another resident, Jitendra Rout of Madhupatna, said waterlogging in parts of the stretch had aggravated the damage and accelerated formation of craters.
Works department acknowledges problem, promises inspection and repairs
Mohd Shahbaz, superintending engineer of the works department, Cuttack, acknowledged the deterioration of the stretch and said a team has been formed to inspect the affected area. Shahbaz said necessary repairs and pothole filling will be taken up within a week.
While commuters welcomed the commitment, they urged a comprehensive resurfacing instead of piecemeal patchwork. They warned that repeated temporary repairs had not delivered a long-term solution and called on authorities to plan for permanent restoration to prevent recurring damage, especially during the monsoon season when waterlogging is likely to exacerbate road failures.
- Location affected: Press Chowk to Madhupatna, adjacent to NH-16
- Localities relying on the stretch: Khannagar, Khapuria, CNBT, Kalyan Nagar, Rajabagicha; access to Orissa High Court and collectorate
- Official response: Works department team formed; repairs and pothole filling to begin within a week, said Mohd Shahbaz
Immediate concerns and precautions for road users
Given the current condition of the road, commuters are advised to exercise extra caution while using the stretch until repairs are completed. Practical precautions include:
- Reducing speed and maintaining a safe distance from vehicles ahead, especially during peak hours.
- Using well-lit routes at night where possible; two-wheeler riders should avoid the stretch after dusk if alternative routes exist.
- Reporting new or worsening potholes to the local works department to expedite repair prioritisation.
- Securing vehicles against damage and avoiding overtaking manoeuvres on the cratered section.
Commuters requested that the authorities undertake a comprehensive resurfacing job rather than repeatedly filling individual potholes, which they said only provides a temporary fix. The works department's inspection and the promised repairs will be closely watched by residents, businesses and legal professionals who depend on the route for daily access to the high court and collectorate.
| Issue | Reported effect |
|---|---|
| Deep potholes and craters | Vehicle damage, slower traffic, risk of collisions |
| Waterlogging | Accelerated road deterioration |
| Night-time visibility | Increased danger for two-wheelers |
Local commuters said they will monitor whether the repairs begin within the timeline indicated by the works department and expect a durable solution to restore safe and smooth movement along this key Cuttack corridor.
