Patna: Angry over the deteriorating condition of a key road in Khusrupur, auto drivers on Monday staged a protest by parking their vehicles in the middle of the road, bringing traffic movement to a halt from the State Highway to the railway crossing. The blockade continued for several hours, leaving commuters stranded and exposing growing frustration over alleged administrative neglect.
The protest erupted over the condition of the main road connecting the State Highway to the railway crossing, which locals say has remained damaged for years. Auto drivers alleged that large potholes filled with stagnant water have made commuting dangerous, especially during the monsoon-like conditions caused by waterlogging.
Speaking during the protest, auto drivers Ajay Kumar and Golu claimed the road has been in poor condition for nearly 12 years. They said the water-filled potholes often make it impossible to judge the depth of the road surface, leading to frequent accidents involving autos and e-rickshaws.
According to the drivers, vehicles suffer regular damage while passengers are also at risk of injury. Protesters alleged that repeated complaints to the authorities have failed to bring any improvement.
Residents of the area also expressed anger over the condition of the road, which falls under the Rural Works Department. Local resident Rahul Kumar said public representatives had been informed several times, but no concrete action had been taken.
“During elections, leaders make big promises, but on the ground people are still forced to travel through mud and waterlogged roads,” a villager said.
The protest severely affected daily commuters, with schoolchildren, office-goers and patients among those caught in the long traffic jam. Suspension of e-rickshaw services during the blockade further added to public inconvenience.
The protesters warned that the agitation would continue until authorities provide a clear assurance regarding reconstruction of the road or work on the project begins.
