A 1.5-kilometer section of Kalenga Road in Habiganj’s Chunarughat upazila is in a state of severe disrepair, causing locals to lament its unrecognizable condition as a proper road. The road, stretching from Himalaya to Chamlati, becomes nearly impassable during rainfall as potholes fill up with mud and water. This situation has made daily life a challenge for students, farmers, and traders, with vehicles frequently breaking down or becoming stuck.
Sumaiya, a student at Himalaya Noorani Madrasa, expressed her struggles, saying, “When it rains, my books get soaked, walking in the mud is impossible, and going to madrasa has become a painful experience.” Her classmate Sadia added, “I struggle to reach class on time. One day, I even slipped and got injured.”
Local trader Sohel Mia Hannan highlighted the impact on businesses, stating, “Vehicles avoid using the road, creating difficulties in transporting goods. This has become a significant concern for anyone involved in commerce.” Farmers are also feeling the effects of the deteriorating road, with Hossain Mia noting, “Transporting rice and vegetables to markets now costs us double the usual fare, and sometimes we can’t find any available vehicles at all.”
CNG driver Sajid Mia described the hazardous conditions, saying, “Engines get stuck in the mud, passengers have to disembark, and we are left with the task of lifting the vehicle out. It’s hard to believe that such poor road conditions still persist.” Retired government official Mahbubur Rahman expressed frustration over the lack of action despite repeated appeals for repairs, stating, “We have been raising this issue for years, but no concrete steps have been taken.”
Chunarughat Upazila Engineer Imam Hossain mentioned that a renovation proposal has been put forward, awaiting the necessary funds to commence the work and address the pressing road issues.