Ganjam, Sept. 21 (UDN): Vehicular movement through Odisha’s Kalinga Ghat will remain suspended for two days as the administration steps up precautionary measures in anticipation of heavy rain and possible landslides.
The ghat road connecting Ganjam and Kandhamal districts will remain closed on September 23 and 24, following concerns over rockfalls and landslides along the vulnerable hill stretch.
Heavy Rain Forecast Prompts Precaution
The restriction has been imposed in view of the possibility of heavy rainfall associated with a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal.
Officials said the steep and vulnerable terrain at Kalinga Ghat could face an increased risk of falling rocks and landslides during intense rainfall.
Ganjam Collector Keerthi Vasan said vehicles would be diverted through alternative routes during the closure period.
Emergency Teams Kept Ready
The administration has identified Chikiti and Patrapur areas of Ganjam as vulnerable locations where landslides could occur during heavy rain.
Fire Services personnel and ODRAF teams have been placed on alert in both areas to respond quickly if any emergency arises.
The Ganjam administration is also coordinating with its Kandhamal counterpart to monitor weather and ground conditions and take necessary action.
Earlier Landslide Still a Concern
The latest precautionary closure comes against the backdrop of a major landslide at Kalinga Ghat on September 16 last year.
The resulting debris reportedly took nearly one-and-a-half months to clear, forcing a prolonged suspension of traffic through the ghat.
Although vehicular movement has since resumed, the affected stretch has not yet returned to its original width. The road is currently around 15 feet wide as a temporary arrangement, while large boulders remain lodged along the hillside.
Commuters Advised to Plan Ahead
With another spell of heavy rain possible, authorities are closely monitoring the vulnerable stretch to minimise the risk to motorists and passengers.
Commuters travelling between Ganjam and Kandhamal have been advised to factor in the two-day restriction and use designated alternative routes during the closure.