Residents and commuters say traffic movement triggers dense clouds of dust throughout the day, reducing visibility and creating health concerns for those living in nearby railway quarters. Families report increased respiratory discomfort among children and the elderly due to prolonged exposure.
Despite the high footfall on the stretch from morning till late evening, the repair work has moved at a sluggish pace. This week, workers began filling potholes with loose gravel, a temporary measure that locals say offers little relief. Regular water sprinkling, essential to control dust, has also been inconsistent.
Former Railway Advisory Committee member and local councillor representative Dipesh Solanki criticised the prolonged delay, stating that the road should have been completed months ago. “The project is almost a year behind schedule. The pace of construction is extremely slow, and even walking from Maldhakka to the station has become difficult,” he said, adding that the quality of the ongoing work needs closer monitoring.
The redevelopment of Raigarh station is part of a wider modernisation plan aimed at improving passenger amenities and connectivity. However, the pending roadwork has become a persistent bottleneck, undermining the project’s broader objectives.
Residents have urged railway and civic authorities to expedite the construction, ensure proper dust control, and maintain safety for daily users. With festival travel and winter traffic approaching, commuters say timely intervention is critical to prevent further inconvenience.
