Villagers in Gumla threaten to withhold votes in 2024 if road isn’t constructed ahead of CM’s visit

Gumla: Two days before Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s scheduled visit to Chapartoli village of Kasira Panchayat on December 19 for the Sarkar Aapke Dwar program, residents of a dozen villages in Kasira Panchayat assembled to address the pressing issue of dilapidated roads. In a stern warning to both the central and state governments, the villagers declared that unless the 30 km dilapidated road from Aerodrome to Kasira Bhaya Olmunda to Okba is promptly constructed, they will abstain from voting in the 2024 elections. This ultimatum was extended to leaders of all political parties, emphasizing that votes would be contingent on tangible efforts to address the road infrastructure woes.

The deteriorating condition of the road has become a critical concern, with pregnant women facing difficulties reaching the hospital, and sick individuals grappling with transportation challenges. Moreover, the Kasira bridge is at risk of collapse due to its dilapidated state, posing a serious threat to the lives of hundreds of daily commuters. The proactive residents of Kasira Panchayat, known for their agricultural endeavors, are currently hindered in transporting their produce to the market due to the inadequate road infrastructure.

The villagers, including Uttam Kumar Sahu, Ropana Sahu, Gajinder Sahu, Kalendra Sahu, Anil Sahu, Basant Sahu, and many others, gathered at the site to voice their concerns and make a collective stand. Their presence underscored the urgency and gravity of the situation, conveying a strong message to the authorities that the need for road construction is non-negotiable for the well-being of the community.