“We Walk Through Mud Every Day”: Gosainpur Locals Blast Authorities Over Rajamiya Lane

The dilapidated condition of Rajamiya Lane in Arkatipur’s Gosainpur area has sparked anger among local residents, who have accused panchayat representatives and contractors of colluding to embezzle government funds allocated for road construction.

The 750-metre road, located in the first part of Gosainpur under Arkatipur Gram Panchayat within the Udharbond Assembly constituency, remains a muddy stretch filled with potholes and broken surfaces despite two major repair projects over the last two decades.

Locals claim that bills were raised for full coverage of the road, but actual construction work was completed on only a 100-metre stretch.

According to residents, repair work on the 50 to 60-year-old road first began in 2005 under the Job Card scheme. Contractors allegedly dumped soil on the road after working for a few days and then left the project incomplete.

In 2017, another repair attempt was made, but the same pattern allegedly repeated. Brick soling was approved for the entire stretch, yet it was laid only over 100 metres. Paving blocks were later installed on the same short portion, and the project was marked as complete by the authorities.

The remaining 650 metres now remain a death trap for commuters. During the rainy season, schoolchildren are carried by their parents across the muddy stretch. Sick residents are unable to use ambulances or vehicles to reach their homes directly. Many locals are forced to leave their motorcycles at one end of the road and walk the remaining distance.

“At least 500 to 600 people travel on this road every day,” a local resident said. “We cannot accept the administration’s indifference towards such a crucial road.”

A student from Rangpur High School said, “I study at Rangpur High School. My village is Kashaipur Pathoan. We face great difficulties in going to school. Many times we cannot attend school. We request the authorities and respected MLA Rajdeep Goala to please come and see our condition.”

Locals have demanded a fair investigation into the alleged embezzlement and strict action against those involved. They have also called for the intervention of local Member of Legislative Assembly Rajdeep Goala, urging him to visit the site and take immediate remedial measures.

The people of Gosainpur said they no longer want promises of development. This time, they want to see real action.