Balrampur (Chhattisgarh) [India], February 25 (HBTV): A road is more than just a hard surface for vehicular movement—it plays a crucial role in driving development, boosting economic activities, and ensuring the smooth implementation of government schemes.

With this in mind, the Balrampur district administration has expedited the construction of a road between Chunchuna and Pundang villages under the Kusmi block. Located near the Chhattisgarh-Jharkhand border, these villages were once Naxal strongholds, forcing residents to live under the shadow of Maoist terror.

Due to insurgent threats, road construction in the area had been stalled for years, depriving locals of essential government benefits. However, after decades of struggle, work on the long-pending project has gained momentum, offering hope that the villagers’ hardships will soon be resolved.

The 17-kilometre-long Sabag-Chunchuna-Pundang road was sanctioned in 2016-17, but Naxalite activity disrupted progress. In the absence of proper connectivity, residents had no choice but to navigate forest routes for daily movement.

Balrampur Collector Rajendra Katara stated that construction is progressing under a strong security cover and will reach the villages in the coming months.

‘Earlier, Naxal activity hindered road construction near the Jharkhand border, with cadres of banned organisations obstructing development. However, with the establishment of security camps and increased protection, work is now advancing rapidly,’ Katara said.

He assured that once completed, the road would enable the smooth implementation of government schemes. ‘Currently, Naxals are on the back foot in the region,’ he added.

A resident expressed relief over the progress, telling ANI, ‘Earlier, we faced many difficulties. Now, commuting is easier, and when we fall sick, an ambulance arrives with just one call.’

(ANI)