Udit Vani , Jamshedpur: The torrential rains triggered massive waterlogging at Fadlugora, causing severe disruption to daily life and vehicular movement.
The Tata-Ranchi National Highway and the Tata–Purulia (West Bengal) route near the Kali Mandir area came to a standstill after being completely submerged on Thursday, stranding commuters for several hours in long traffic snarls.
Residential Areas Underwater
The worst-hit zone was the Ashiyana Woodland Colony, where water levels rose to 15–20 feet, flooding homes and trapping thousands of residents. Dozens of two-wheelers, four-wheelers, buses, trucks, and private vehicles were either stranded or submerged. Streets turned into streams, with little room for movement or relief access.
Drainage Collapse and Official Response
Following administrative intervention, efforts were made to drain water from the four-lane Tata-Ranchi highway using poclain machines. Despite these efforts, the situation remains critical. Officials are racing against time to restore normalcy and prevent further damage.
Accountability Questions Surface
Locals and public representatives have held the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) accountable for the flooding. They alleged that during the construction of the Chandil-Dimna stretch, a crucial drainage outlet near a stream was blocked with mud, leaving no escape route for rainwater. This led to flooding across the region, creating near-deluge conditions.
Demands for Action and Permanent Solutions
Residents have demanded immediate action against NHAI and the construction agencies involved, calling for strict accountability and a permanent drainage system to avoid such incidents in the future. While the district administration continues relief and rescue efforts, rising water levels are hindering operations.
Alternate Route Designated
In response to the highway blockade, the administration has directed all vehicles through an alternate route: Kanderbera–Domuhani–Manago–Dimna Road towards Tata and Ranchi. Police personnel have been deployed along the route to manage and regulate traffic flow effectively.
