Canal Collapses Within Two Months, Raising Questions Over Poor-Quality Construction

Baripada: The collapse of a recently constructed canal near Khekhilidi under Bijatala Panchayat in Bijatala Block of Mayurbhanj district has sparked resentment among local residents. According to locals, the canal was constructed only about three months ago. Its collapse within such a short period has raised serious questions about the quality of the construction work. Residents have demanded an investigation into the quality of materials used, the contractor responsible for the project, and whether officials of the concerned department had properly inspected the work during construction. They have also sought action against the engineer who was responsible for supervising the canal project, which was built using government funds worth crores of rupees. The issue has drawn criticism from members of the local intelligentsia, who questioned how such negligence could occur despite the department's officials and ministers drawing substantial salaries.