Dhanbad: Nine days have elapsed since a major cave-in occurred on the Dhanbad–Ranchi main road in the Kenduadih area, yet repair work has not commenced, triggering widespread anger among local residents. The road collapse has completely disrupted traffic movement, severely affecting daily life and leaving commuters struggling to manage routine activities.
MLA Leads Indefinite Sit-In Protest
Amid the growing crisis, Jharkhand Assembly Whip and Dhanbad MLA Raj Sinha on Thursday staged an indefinite sit-in protest on the damaged stretch of the Kenduadih on the Dhanbad-Ranchi road. He was joined by local villagers and members of the Koyalanchal Bachao Sangharsh Samiti. A large number of affected residents, including hundreds of women, participated in the demonstration, raising slogans and pressing for immediate action.
Key Demands of Protesters
The protesters have put forward key demands, including the immediate commencement of repair work on the Dhanbad–Ranchi main road, restoration of traffic movement, and direct dialogue between the district administration, Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), and the affected families regarding rehabilitation. Speaking to the media at the protest site, MLA Raj Sinha alleged gross negligence on the part of the district administration, municipal corporation, and BCCL. He stated that despite the severity of the incident, the concerned authorities have failed to show urgency or sensitivity. “People’s lives have been disrupted, yet no concrete steps have been taken so far,” he remarked.
Rehabilitation Concerns
On the issue of rehabilitation, Sinha emphasized that families unwilling to relocate to Belgadia township should be provided alternative settlement options in Saraidhela, Karmik Nagar, or other safe locations. He stressed that the consent, dignity, and convenience of displaced families must remain a top priority. Issuing a stern warning, Sinha declared that the indefinite protest would continue until repair work begins and decisive measures are taken in the interest of the affected population.
BCCL Officials Visit Protest Site
Meanwhile, the general manager of BCCL’s PB Area, J C Saha, visited the protest site and held discussions with the MLA. During the meeting, Saha informed that the repair work will begin soon but could not mention any specific date or timeline. However, Sinha remained firm on his demands for immediate resolution and road restoration.
Parallel Protests by Other Leaders
In a parallel development, a satyagraha was also organized at Randhir Verma Chowk under the leadership of Nirsa MLA Arup Chatterjee, highlighting the subsidence on NH-32 in Kenduadih. Chatterjee demanded a scientific investigation through excavation of the affected area before reconstruction. He warned of intensified protests outside the BCCL headquarters if prompt action is not taken. Ajsu district president Mantu Mahto also voiced concern, urging BCCL to ensure the safety and security of residents and take immediate corrective measures.
Background of the Incident
Notably, on April 15 morning, a portion of the Dhanbad–Ranchi main road caved in near Kenduadih police station, forcing authorities to shut down the busy stretch and divert traffic. The delay in repair work has exacerbated the woes of daily commuters and local residents, who demand swift action from the authorities.
