Public Hearing on 29th for Sakhigopal Railway Overbridge

Sakhigopal, 20.02.2024 (Singhari Alok Khuntia):
Sakhigopal is a prominent tourist destination on Odisha’s tourism map, also home to the prestigious Odia University. Every day, thousands of tourists arrive at the Sakshigopal Temple via buses and private vehicles. Moreover, Sakshigopal has become a key commercial hub for the surrounding region, drawing heavy footfall in the local market. The Sakshigopal Community Health Centre also sees regular inflow of patients from nearby areas via ambulances, and a significant number of goods transport vehicles (including sand-laden trucks) pass through this area daily.

However, over 120 trains pass through Sakshigopal market every day, leading to the railway level crossing being closed for most of the day. As a result, patients’ lives are at risk, and commuters and the general public face severe inconvenience due to long delays and traffic congestion.

The increasing congestion is also impacting local shopkeepers, as the market is becoming narrower and more crowded, further aggravating transport issues. For years, local residents and travelers have been demanding the construction of a railway overbridge and expansion of roads in Sakshigopal market.

In response, preparations have now gained momentum. A public hearing has been scheduled on 29th February for land acquisition required for the project. A notice in this regard has been issued by the District Collector’s Office, Puri.

For Penthapada Panchayat, the hearing will take place at 11 AM at the Penthapada Panchayat Office.