More than seven decades after Independence, residents of four remote villages in Gajapati district remain deprived of road connectivity, forcing them to walk long and treacherous routes for essential services.

In Rayagada block, the villages of Tarabasing, Jhulasahi, Surangi, and Asangala—home to over 600 people—still lack motorable road access. A proposed 8-km road meant to connect these villages has been pending for more than 50 years, leaving the communities isolated.

Ambulances cannot reach the villages. Pregnant women and critically ill patients face life-threatening delays. Children walk long distances over steep, dangerous paths to attend school, often sustaining injuries, said locals Dutiya Rait, Sundar Sabar, and Namita Rait.

Villagers said that while government officials frequ

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