THE long-awaited repair work on the Keshkal Ghat road, which began before Diwali, remains far from completion, with the contractor facing persistent delays. In a bid to address the situation, the National Highway Public Works Department (NHPWD), Kanker Sub-Division has formally requested an extension of 29 more days from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Keshkal, asking for the deadline to be moved from November 8 to December 7. The ongoing repairs, which are being carried out by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) contractor, cover a critical 5-kilometre stretch of the Keshkal Ghat area. Despite progress in some areas, crucial tasks like concrete laying and asphalt work are yet to be completed.

 

This delay has forced NHAI to seek additional time to finish repairs along the stretch between kilometers 162 and 167 of Keshkal Ghat. Authorities have requested that the alternate route be maintained for the duration of the work to accommodate the heavy flow of traffic. Keshkal Ghat, a vital stretch on National Highway 30, often described as Bastar’s lifeline, has been severely impacted by the heavy movement of vehicles. The road has developed significant potholes, causing inconvenience to commuters and increasing the risk of accidents. The ghat, which sees approximately 25,000 vehicles passing through it daily, has been under pressure due to the delays in the repair work. In addition to the current delays, the situation is compounded by the unfinished bypass road, which was originally planned six years ago. With an estimated cost of Rs 13 crore, the bypass has yet to be completed, leaving the main highway as the only viable route for vehicles. The original plan to close Keshkal Ghat to heavy vehicles for 45 days was met with widespread frustration. Although the restriction was intended to allow repairs, it has now been extended indefinitely due to the slow pace of work, affecting local residents and drivers who rely on the ghat for daily transportation.