Staff Reporter :
A 1.5-kilometre stretch of road in Chandina upazila has become a symbol of neglect and frustration for the residents of five villages. The deteriorating road, which connects Maizkhar, Purbo Ambarpur, Chilora, Alikamora, and Awoazband, has been left unrepaired for years, leaving around 15,000 people, especially students, facing hazardous conditions. With no relief in sight, daily commuters, schoolchildren, and traders continue to endure the hardships caused by the road’s deplorable condition.
In the winter, the area is shrouded in thick dust clouds, making it difficult to see or breathe. During the monsoon, the road transforms into a muddy trap, increasing the risk of accidents.
Locals report that the one-kilometre segment from Purbo Maizkhar Women’s Dakhil Madrasa to Alikamora is riddled with potholes, while another half-kilometre stretch near Bashar Huzur’s house in Chilora has partially collapsed due to encroaching water bodies. The road, once lined with brick soling, has deteriorated over time, leaving gaping holes and loose debris.
For schoolchildren, the road has become a daily hazard. Many students struggle to reach school on time, with their uniforms covered in dust during dry months and mud in the rainy season. Patients requiring urgent medical care are also affected, as ambulances often avoid the route due to its condition.
Local traders, including businessman Saiful Islam, expressed frustration over the road’s state. “Transporting goods along this road has become a nightmare. The potholes and collapsed sections make it nearly impossible.
We have pleaded with the authorities time and again, but nothing changes,” he said. Another trader, Jalal Uddin, recalled a recent incident when his vehicle, loaded with goods, veered off the road and plunged into the water in Chilora, causing significant losses. “If this road is repaired, it will ease business operations for everyone,” he added.
Farmers are also feeling the impact, as Md Sharif, a vegetable farmer, explained the challenges of transporting produce.
“This region is known for winter vegetables, but the road has made our work much harder. We are forced to take longer, costlier routes, which cuts into our profits,” he said.
