Ganjam/Gajapati, Odisha: Continuous rainfall triggered by Cyclone Arnab has caused landslides at Taptapani Ghat on the Ganjam-Gajapati district border, disrupting traffic and creating dangerous conditions for commuters.
Large boulders, mud and water have come down from the hillside and spread across the road. The situation worsened after another landslide reportedly occurred during the night, sending more rocks rolling onto the roadway.
Several passenger buses and other vehicles were stranded along the ghat stretch, leaving travellers facing difficulties.
Fresh Landslide Increases Danger for Commuters
The first landslide occurred after heavy rainfall loosened soil and rocks along the hillside. Mud and water began flowing down onto the road, making it difficult for vehicles to pass safely.
Another landslide during the night further increased the danger. Large boulders reportedly rolled down from the hill and fell onto the road, adding to the existing debris and water flow.
The combination of falling rocks, slippery surfaces and strong water currents has made the stretch particularly risky for motorists.
Passenger Buses Stranded at Taptapani Ghat
The landslide has disrupted the movement of passenger buses and other vehicles. Several buses have reportedly remained stranded since late at night, causing inconvenience to passengers.
Travellers have been facing difficulties as the road remains affected by debris and water flowing from the hillside.
The Taptapani Ghat route is an important road connection between Ganjam and Gajapati districts. Any major disruption along this stretch affects commuters and people travelling between different parts of southern Odisha.
Night-Time Traffic Restrictions Amid Safety Concerns
Night-time traffic movement on the affected ghat road has reportedly remained suspended as a precautionary measure. However, reports indicate that some vehicles have continued to move through the stretch despite the dangerous conditions.
Commuters face risks from falling rocks, sudden water flow and unstable hillside sections. Travellers are advised not to attempt crossing blocked or unsafe portions of the road and to follow instructions issued by the local administration and police.
Cyclone Arnab Rains Trigger Landslides Across Southern Odisha
The incident is part of the wider disruption caused by heavy rainfall associated with Cyclone Arnab. Several areas of Ganjam and Gajapati districts have experienced flooding, waterlogging and road damage.
Earlier reports also highlighted water and mud flowing over National Highway-326 near Palukhola at Taptapani Ghat, leaving vehicles stranded on both sides of the affected stretch.
The continuing rainfall has increased concerns about further landslides and damage to road connectivity in hilly areas.
Travellers Await Safe Restoration of Traffic
The landslide at Taptapani Ghat has highlighted the risks faced by commuters during periods of intense rainfall in the region. Clearing fallen boulders and mud, assessing the stability of the hillside and ensuring safe road conditions are important before normal traffic can resume.
Passengers stranded along the route are waiting for conditions to improve and safe movement to be restored.
Commuters should check the latest local traffic advisories before travelling through Taptapani Ghat, particularly during night-time and periods of continued rainfall.
