Balrampur, Chhattisgarh:
While the onset of the monsoon has brought relief from the summer heat, it has also laid bare the alarming condition of National Highway 343 (NH-343). The continuous rainfall has turned the road into a dangerous and nearly impassable stretch, especially between Ambikapur and Pasta, where deep potholes and muddy patches dominate the route.
Locals complain that the road is in such poor shape that one now has to “search for the road between potholes.” Motorists traveling on this stretch are facing immense difficulties, and in several places, the road has completely broken down, increasing the risk of accidents.
Before the rains, the National Highways Department had carried out superficial repair work by filling the potholes with soil, crusher dust, and loose gravel. However, the first spell of monsoon showers washed everything away. The department failed to implement any durable or long-term solution, leading to the road’s rapid deterioration once again.
Residents and drivers have expressed strong frustration over the condition of the highway. Many allege that authorities only take action when a senior official or politician suffers damage to their vehicle.
The public is now urging the administration to carry out immediate repairs to prevent accidents and restore safe travel. As of now, commuting on NH-343 remains a nightmare, with people navigating their way by identifying the road through the potholes.