Angul, Oct. 5 (UDN): Persistent waterlogging and inadequate drainage along National Highway 149 between Pitiri and Pallahara in Odisha’s Angul district have emerged as a major concern for commuters and residents, who say rainwater frequently spills onto the highway and makes travel difficult.
The problem has also triggered resentment over toll collection, with locals questioning why commuters are being charged despite alleged deficiencies in basic road and drainage infrastructure.
Rainwater Overflows Onto Highway
Residents said roadside drains are unable to cope with rainwater during heavy showers. Several stretches of the drainage network are reportedly clogged with soil, garbage and other debris, while some portions remain open.
As a result, rainwater accumulates on the highway and flows along the carriageway, creating inconvenience for motorists and raising concerns over road safety.
Locals claimed that although portions of the highway were repaired following complaints about its condition, the drainage problem remained largely unresolved.
Residents Raise Safety Concerns
According to local residents, the condition of some stretches reportedly worsened soon after construction. They also attributed traffic-related difficulties to the movement of heavy vehicles and the absence of adequate service roads in certain locations.
The recurring waterlogging has added to concerns among people who use the highway regularly for work, agriculture, education and other daily activities.
Toll Collection Draws Local Opposition
Residents have also questioned the location of the toll plaza, claiming it is situated close to a market and causes inconvenience to people making short-distance trips.
Locals said they are required to pay toll charges even when travelling to nearby agricultural fields or petrol stations. Parents taking children to school have also reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over the toll burden.
Local resident Rakesh Kumar Pradhan urged authorities to address the issue, saying a solution to the toll-related concerns would provide significant relief to people living in the area.
NHAI Promises Drainage Repairs
Kuldeep Songara, Project Director, NHAI Dhenkanal Circle, said the highway had earlier been handed over by the Public Works Department and suggested that the toll plaza may have complied with the applicable distance requirement at the time.
He said the road is proposed to be upgraded to a four-lane highway, following which the toll plaza would be relocated as part of the development.
Songara also said contractors have been directed to ensure regular cleaning of roadside drains and carry out necessary repairs.
With the onset of rainfall, residents are now seeking prompt action to clear clogged drains and prevent repeated waterlogging on the busy highway stretch.
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