Road Block Protest:

Tension prevailed on National Highway 49 after a family staged a road blockade demanding compensation for land acquired for highway expansion.

The incident occurred near Kala Chhak under Barkote block, where affected family members blocked the road by placing stones and wooden logs. The protest caused disruption in traffic, leaving several vehicles stranded.

According to reports, the late Kanju Nayak of Kala village had lost his land for the expansion of NH 49. However, his family has not received compensation even after several years.

After his death, his widow and two daughters have been repeatedly approaching the Barkote tehsil office, but no action has been taken so far. Alleging negligence by officials, the family resorted to protest.

The widow and her younger daughter blocked the highway demanding immediate compensation.

On receiving information, Barkote police and highway authorities reached the spot and held discussions with the protesters. The tehsildar assured that the issue would be resolved soon, following which the blockade was cleared.