Kumram Bheem Asifabad: As Union Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari is set to inaugurate the new road network in Wankidi mandal, locals have staged a protest, demanding the construction of side drains along the national highway. The demonstration took place on NH 363, where residents voiced their frustrations over the delay in constructing the necessary drainage system in the area. The locals highlighted that, particularly during heavy rainfall, low-lying areas of the village become inundated, causing severe inconvenience. Furthermore, stagnant sewage from nearby localities is also becoming a significant issue, leading to public health concerns.
The protesters expressed their disappointment with both the local authorities and the Union government for failing to address the drainage problem, despite the fact that a significant amount of Rs 3,500 crore was spent on the construction of the road in 2024. The villagers pointed out that although the road had been completed, the essential side drains had not been built, leaving them vulnerable to flooding during the monsoon season. Carrying placards and shouting slogans, they demanded immediate action to resolve the drainage issue before the onset of further rain.
The protestors were detained by the police for blocking the national highway during the sit-in, which coincided with the minister’s planned visit. Gadkari is scheduled to inaugurate the 94-kilometre national highway connecting Mancherial and Wankidi before addressing a public meeting in Kaghaznagar. The protest has raised concerns about the lack of proper infrastructure planning and the neglect of basic facilities like drainage systems in the region, which are crucial for the well-being of the residents.
