A landslide struck Kalinga Ghat, located on the border of Kandhamal and Ganjam districts, on Tuesday afternoon, causing significant disruption to traffic.
The incident, attributed to continuous rainfall, led to soil, debris, and rocks sliding down the hillside, blocking the road and halting vehicular movement. No casualties or injuries have been reported, but the blockage has left numerous vehicles stranded on both sides of the ghat.
The landslide has instilled fear among drivers, who now consider the route unsafe for travel. Kalinga Ghat serves as a critical link for vehicles travelling to and from districts such as Ganjam, Phulbani, Boudh, Angul, Sambalpur, Rayagada, and Bhawanipatna.
The road’s condition has already been deteriorating in several areas, exacerbating safety concerns. Just a week ago, on September 8, a similar incident involving a large boulder had obstructed the same stretch, highlighting the recurring nature of the problem.
Drivers have expressed concerns over the lack of adequate safety measures, noting that protective walls along the ghat have been damaged.
The National Highways Authority has been urged to take immediate action to address the situation, including clearing the debris and implementing long-term measures to prevent future landslides. Local authorities are working to restore access.
