Phulbani: Disruption along the crucial Kalinga Ghat section on National Highway 157 has prompted immediate high-priority intervention by state authorities following severe monsoon landslides.
Taking stock of the ground realities, Principal Secretary Works, Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh, alongside Kandhamal District Magistrate Shri Vedbhushan and senior highway engineers, conducted an on-site joint inspection of the landslide-damaged stretches located at Km 86.380 and Km 86.675.
The recurring slope failures along the steep terrain of Kalinga Ghat have long rendered transit treacherous during peak rainfall, creating severe connectivity bottlenecks for local commuters and inter-district transport. During the physical survey of the tracks, Principal Secretary Shri Singh emphasized that public safety remains the absolute priority before any traffic normalization can take place.
Removal of Loose Debris: Directives were issued for the immediate clearance of hanging boulders, soft topsoil, and unstable rocks along the affected hillside face to prevent further rockfall hazards.
Single-Lane Controlled Passage: To enable minimal essential vehicle movement without compromising commuter safety, a controlled single-lane transit setup will be introduced at Km 86.675. This arrangement features a 400-meter tapered safety buffer zone on either side of the affected spot to guide approaching vehicles smoothly through the vulnerable zone.
Expert Structural Assessment: Acknowledging that temporary fixes are insufficient for such unstable terrain, the Works Secretary called for a detailed technical investigation by an expert team, including technical specialists from IIT. The team will study the root causes of the slope failure and propose long-term engineering remedies, permanent stabilization structures, and sustainable safety measures.
The proactive, hands-on administrative response and direct presence of Principal Secretary Shri Singh at the vulnerable ghat roads have drawn widespread appreciation from local elected representatives, who praised his deep concern for public safety and swift action toward building durable highway infrastructure.