Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, Nov 30: The long-awaited construction of the Pitki flyover on Tata-Purulia NH-32 in Chandil subdivision, Seraikela-Kharsawan district, remains incomplete for the past three years, leaving local residents to endure daily hardships. Initially planned to be finished by 2021, the flyover’s construction has stalled due to technical challenges, especially concerning the necessary closure of the block for the flyover to cross the railway tracks.
Despite the obstacles, NHAI officials are optimistic that the issues will be resolved soon. The incomplete flyover has resulted in a chaotic situation for commuters. Every day, more than 5,000 vehicles, including heavy trucks, cross the railway track near Pitki gate, leading to long queues and severe delays, especially for two-wheelers. The movement of passenger and goods trains further exacerbates the issue, with commuters waiting for hours for the gates to open.
The road condition in the area is deplorable, with heavy vehicles causing significant damage. The continuous passage of trucks has created a dusty environment, making it difficult for pedestrians and locals to move about safely. “Due to the condition of the road, people are forced to wait for hours, and the surrounding area is constantly covered in dust,” said Jitendra Kumar Singh, a local resident. “The situation is so bad that even seeing ahead is difficult due to the thick dust.”
For many residents, the train has become the preferred mode of transport as the road congestion continues to worsen. “We are forced to travel by train to Purulia because the main road is always jammed,” said Rakesh Jaiswal, a daily commuter. The delay in the flyover’s construction has also affected public transportation, with buses avoiding the route due to the dangerous road conditions. Only iron and coal-laden vehicles continue to use the road, further contributing to the wear and tear.
More than 50,000 people use this route daily, traveling to Jamshedpur, Purulia, Durgapur, Bokaro, and Dhanbad. With the railway gates frequently closed, commuters must navigate multiple crossings, adding to their frustration. “Passenger buses are not running anymore because it’s unsafe to drive on these roads,” said Naveen Pansari, a bus operator.
Local residents are also frustrated by the lack of action from the authorities. “Officials travel in air-conditioned vehicles with their windows shut, oblivious to the dust and suffering of the people,” said Kaushik Khaitan, a local resident. He added that no concrete steps have been taken to repair the road or control the dust, even though hundreds of vehicles pass through daily.
The situation remains dire, and residents are hoping that the government will expedite the completion of the flyover and address the road conditions soon.
