Landslides on NH-49 disrupt traffic in Kendujhar

Heavy rainfall and a low-pressure system have triggered landslides along National Highway 49 in the Kendujhar district, causing significant traffic disruptions at Kanjipani Ghat and Judia Ghat. At Kanjipani Ghat, a landslide blocked one side of the highway for approximately 15 hours before debris was cleared.

At Judia Ghat, mud and large rocks fell at seven different locations, blocking one side of the highway for over 30 hours. While authorities expect normal traffic movement to resume by Sunday night, heavy rain has slowed clearing operations. Vehicles are currently being diverted through a single lane, leading to congestion and hazardous driving conditions.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has deployed heavy machinery, including excavators, trucks, and cranes, to clear the debris. NHAI Project Director Kartik Reddy is monitoring the site. Due to a red alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall, local authorities have ordered the closure of schools, colleges, and anganwadi centres in Keonjhar and postponed scheduled grievance hearings.