“Potholes Everywhere, Roads Nowhere: Jeypore Residents Cry Foul”

Roads across Jeypore town have turned into a nightmare for commuters, with residents alleging that not a single stretch is motorable.

Riddled with potholes and craters, the condition of the roads has sparked widespread public anger.“Riding a two-wheeler has become dangerous. You never know when the wheels will plunge into a big pothole, leading to accidents,” Sibaji Patnaik a prominent businessman. Patnaik added that Jeypore, being the largest commercial hub of the region, attracts thousands of visitors during the festive season, but the poor road conditions are dampening the festive mood.

The situation worsens during rains, as water-filled craters become invisible traps for motorists and pedestrians.Parents, in particular, fear for the safety of children commuting to schools. “Authorities should at least take up temporary repairs during the rainy season to prevent accidents,” said Narayan Nisonko a educationalist.

Locals also alleged that despite repeated complaints, the condition of the roads has only deteriorated. Mahatma Gandhi Road, which was cleared of encroachments for widening, is yet to be completed, causing further inconvenience.

When contacted, Jeypore Public Works Department Superintending Engineer Priya Ranjan Behera said: “All seven roads in the town under the department will be completely renovated after the monsoon. Tenders have been finalised, and each road will get a fresh coating of bitumen. This will ensure commuters face no difficulty next season.”