The 24-kilometer stretch of the Laxmipur-Raipur regional highway has turned into a nightmare for thousands of commuters and drivers. Plagued by massive potholes and neglect, the road is now a major safety hazard, with public suffering mounting daily.
A spot visit revealed that large craters have formed across various sections. In several areas, the bitumen has completely worn away, exposing the soil beneath. Elsewhere, road edges have collapsed, dangerously narrowing the path for heavy vehicles. The stretches from Raipur Bazar to Border Bazar and Laxmipur to Mile Mata are reportedly in the worst condition.
"Traveling this road is a constant risk," said one local driver. "Vehicle parts break down frequently, and accidents are a constant threat." Passengers echoed these frustrations, noting that travel times have doubled due to the dilapidated state of the highway.
Local residents claim the road has been neglected for years, with the situation becoming impassable during the monsoon when water hides deep potholes.
Laxmipur Roads and Highways Department (RHD) Executive Engineer Nazrul Islam acknowledged the crisis. He stated that while tenders for an 11-km section were called five times, the work failed to start due to a lack of competent contractors. However, he noted that new initiatives are underway.
Regarding the remaining 13-km stretch, Islam confirmed that the tender process is complete, and renovation is scheduled to begin within the next two months. Locals have demanded immediate temporary repairs to prevent further accidents before the full project begins.
