Jharsuguda (Bijay Shankar Dash): Residents of Kudopali Panchayat in Jharsuguda Sadar Block, Brajrajnagar, strongly object to the deteriorating living conditions in their area. Kudopali villagers protest against coal dust as the livelihood of hundreds of people suffers daily, with the village battling heavy vehicle movement, thick coal dust, and a lack of basic amenities.
Around 400 residents live in Orampada under Kudopali Panchayat Ward No. 3, where clean drinking water and electricity still elude them. The village has only one road packed with coal-laden trucks that occupy the route from dawn to dusk.
Locals recall that, for safety reasons, former District Collector Punam Guha Tapas Kumar banned heavy vehicle traffic on the same road back in 2012. However, in recent months, thousands of trucks cross the road daily, filling the air with coal dust and smoke. The thick haze reduces visibility, and many residents now struggle with respiratory problems.
Children, pregnant people, and older residents walk nearly a kilometer to reach the Anganwadi, risking their health and safety. Kudopali Panchayat sits between three major coal fields, which worsen the pollution problem.
Continuous heavy traffic makes it hard for children to commute to school, while coal debris pollutes ponds and homes throughout the area. Despite villagers submitting repeated complaints to the District Collector seeking a permanent solution, the administration still ignores their demand, said Samiti member Rashmita Pradhan.
Ward members Jyotsna Oram, Basanti Oram, and Malati Oram joined her along with residents Tilottama Oram, Vidyadhar Oram, Mana Oram, Rajkumar Oram, and Sunil Oram. Together, they voiced frustration and disappointment.
“The district administration’s inaction puts our lives at risk,” said Panchayat Samiti Member Rashmita Pradhan. “We are not asking for much just clean air, a safe road, and the basic right to live with dignity.”
