Residents of Bakhli-Kheeda and Taal in Almora district ended their road protest after officials promised repairs and resurfacing work on the 2 damaged routes. The demonstration was held on Friday in Chaukutiya over prolonged problems affecting travel and road safety.
Led by former serviceman Bhuvan Singh Kathayat, villagers staged a sit-in and raised slogans against the Public Works Department. They said repeated complaints had not resulted in improvements on either road.
Potholes worsen after rain
According to the residents, deep potholes have formed at several points along both roads. Rainwater collects in these depressions, making movement more difficult and increasing the risk faced by vehicle drivers.
The villagers sought immediate filling of the potholes and resurfacing of the damaged stretches. Their concerns centred on the poor condition of the routes and the danger created for people using them.
Public Works Department officials and Tehsildar Mohit Devpa reached the location after receiving information about the protest. They spoke with the residents and reviewed the condition of the roads.
Officials assured the protesters that potholes would be filled soon. They also said resurfacing work on both roads would begin from 15 October.
Following that assurance, the villagers called off the sit-in. They warned that another protest would be organised if work did not begin within the stated timeframe.
What happens next
The immediate issue is whether the promised pothole repairs and resurfacing proceed according to the schedule given to residents. The villagers have made clear that the next response will depend on visible action on both roads.
Conclusion
Residents have suspended their protest after receiving an assurance of early pothole repairs and resurfacing from 15 October. They may resume the agitation if the promised work does not start on time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which roads were at the centre of the protest?
The protest concerned the Bakhli-Kheeda and Taal roads in Chaukutiya, Almora.
Q. Why did residents hold the demonstration?
They objected to potholes, rainwater accumulation and the prolonged poor condition of the roads.
Q. Who led the sit-in?
Former serviceman Bhuvan Singh Kathayat led the villagers during the protest.
Q. Which department faced the villagers’ criticism?
The Public Works Department faced slogans and criticism over the condition of the 2 roads.
Q. Which officials visited the protest site?
Public Works Department officials and Tehsildar Mohit Devpa reached the site and assessed the roads.
Q. What repair assurance was given?
Officials said potholes would be filled soon and resurfacing on both roads would start from 15 October.
Q. Why did the villagers end the protest?
They called off the sit-in after officials gave the repair and resurfacing assurance.
Q. What did residents warn?
They warned of another protest if work did not begin within the promised timeframe.
