Rayagada, June 5 (BNP): Tension prevailed in Rayagada district on Friday as residents of Kumbhikota Panchayat staged a massive road blockade, protesting against the prolonged shortage of drinking water and irregular electricity supply in the area.
Residents of Kumbhikota Panchayat in Rayagada district block the Rayagada–Koraput road, protesting against acute drinking water shortages and irregular power supply on Friday.
Hundreds of villagers, including a large number of women, gathered on the main Rayagada–Koraput road and blocked vehicular movement for several hours. Protesters placed water pots, buckets, and other household containers on the road, symbolizing their struggle to access basic amenities.
The demonstration brought traffic to a complete standstill, disrupting movement between Rayagada and Koraput districts. Long queues of vehicles were seen stranded on both sides of the road as commuters faced significant inconvenience.
Villagers alleged that despite repeated complaints to the concerned authorities, the problems of drinking water scarcity and frequent power outages remain unresolved. They demanded immediate intervention from the district administration and restoration of essential services.
Local police and administrative officials reached the spot and held discussions with the agitating residents in an effort to defuse the situation. The protesters, however, insisted on concrete assurances before withdrawing the blockade.
The incident highlights growing public resentment over inadequate basic infrastructure in rural areas, with residents urging the government to ensure uninterrupted access to drinking water and electricity.