Cuttack, July 2 (UDN): A major stretch of an under-construction six-lane road in Odisha’s Cuttack district caved in following heavy rainfall, raising serious concerns over the quality of construction and prompting the district administration to order a high-level inquiry.
The damaged stretch, located near Bhuasuni Gada on the Chahata Square–Madhusetu Road project, extends for nearly 100 metres. The adjoining retaining wall also collapsed after the recent spell of rain, exposing significant structural damage to the partially completed road.
The six-lane road project, which has been under construction for nearly three years, is yet to be completed. Following the heavy rainfall, a substantial portion of the carriageway reportedly subsided, causing visible cracks and separation of the road surface. The incident has triggered allegations of substandard construction practices and poor execution.
Local residents alleged that extensive damage occurring after only a few hours of rainfall raises serious questions about the quality of materials used and adherence to construction standards. They demanded strict action against the contractor if any lapses or negligence are established during the investigation.
Residents also reported the formation of roadside cavities in CDA Sectors 9 and 10 after the rains. They claimed that cracks have developed in the boundary walls of nearby houses and expressed concern that the movement of heavy vehicles in the area has further aggravated the situation, posing a potential risk to public safety.
Warning that the damaged road could become a serious hazard for commuters during the ongoing monsoon season, residents urged authorities to undertake immediate repair and restoration work.
Taking serious note of the incident, Cuttack District Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde has ordered a high-level inquiry into the collapse. The district administration stated that stringent action would be taken against those found responsible if the investigation establishes negligence, construction defects, or violations of prescribed quality standards.
Expressing concern over the quality of the retaining wall, Bidanasi Village Committee President Madhu Mallick alleged that local residents had earlier urged the authorities to ensure deeper foundations during construction. According to him, those concerns were ignored, resulting in the present collapse.
The outcome of the inquiry is expected to determine the cause of the structural failure and fix accountability while ensuring that necessary corrective measures are taken to safeguard public infrastructure and commuter safety.