Kandhamal, Oct 29: Heavy rainfall associated with Cyclone Arnab triggered another landslide on the Kalinga Ghat road in Odisha’s Kandhamal district on Thursday, raising fresh concerns over road safety and delaying ongoing restoration work.
According to reports, a massive boulder rolled down the hillside near Andharikot, blocking a section of the road and disrupting movement along the vital route connecting Kandhamal and Ganjam districts.
Recurring Landslides Complicate Restoration Work
The latest incident occurred at the same location along National Highway-157 where a stretch of the road was washed away on September 24 following incessant rainfall.
Restoration work at the damaged site was still underway when the fresh landslide struck. The latest obstruction has added to the challenges faced by authorities and workers attempting to restore normal road connectivity.
Safety Concerns Grow at Kalinga Ghat
Kalinga Ghat serves as an important transport link between southern Odisha’s Ganjam and Kandhamal districts. However, repeated landslides and soil erosion near Andharikot have made the stretch increasingly vulnerable during periods of heavy rainfall.
To prevent further damage, a protective guard wall was being constructed at the vulnerable location. The fresh landslide could complicate the ongoing repair and protection work.
Commuters Urged to Exercise Caution
With heavy rain continuing in parts of Odisha following Cyclone Arnab, the risk of further landslides remains a concern in hilly areas.
Commuters travelling between Ganjam and Kandhamal are advised to check the latest road conditions and follow instructions from local authorities before setting out. Travellers should avoid approaching landslide-prone stretches and never attempt to cross a blocked or unstable section of road.