Every month Bodrai Barik has to make an 11 kilometre long journey from Karimati to Jaldega district to collect his pension. Every time the retired school teacher makes this trip his bones are left shaken to the core because of the pothole ridden road.
Community Correspondent Warlus Surin in this video from Simdega district Jharkhand tells us that the road between Jaldega and Lashada has been deteriorating for about four years now-- there is now more pothole than tar on this path.
The road is the only way for the residents of this area to get to Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand. It is also one of the only 'pucca roads' in the area connecting 2 districts and 4 villages. Would the story have been different if this road connected industries and mines?
Arjun Nayak an auto rickshaw driver who ferries children to the neighbouring school often fears that one of his passengers might go over board while bumping along the road. The toll his rickshaw takes is another matter of concern. Each trip to the mechanic for repairs makes a dent in his earnings.
"Right now because of the monsoon people have almost stopped using the road unless they absolutely have to. They prefer going through the jungle, which comes with its own set of safety issues", says Warlus.
"The authorities are aware of the road's condition but are in a deep slumber about taking action to repair it. Are they waiting for an accident?", says Bodrai Barik.
Warlus has taken it on himself now to wake up the authorities with this video. You can add your voice to the wake up call.
Call to Action: Please call Mr Pravin Kumar Topo, the Assistant Commissioner of Simdega District on 06525225701 and ask him to get the road repaired.
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