Are Truck Parking Issues Endangering Commuters on Keonjhar's National Highways?

The safety of commuters on Keonjhar's National Highways is under threat due to rampant illegal truck parking. Despite warnings from authorities, truck drivers continue to park haphazardly, leading to frequent accidents and traffic congestion. The lack of designated parking areas exacerbates the situation, with environmentalists raising concerns over wildlife movement disruptions. Local truck owners are calling for better enforcement and designated facilities to address these pressing issues. Read on to learn more about the challenges faced by drivers and the community's response.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 21, 2025, 10:19 IST

Concerns Over Truck Parking on National Highways

Keonjhar: The safety of travelers on National Highways (NHs) in Keonjhar district remains compromised as repeated warnings from local authorities have failed to prevent truck drivers from parking their vehicles chaotically on these roads. The absence of designated parking areas exacerbates the situation, leading to frequent accidents and threats to both life and property. Key routes such as NH-20, 520, and 49 traverse the district, alongside various state highways and expressways, facilitating heavy traffic from iron ore-laden trucks and other commercial vehicles.

Unfortunately, organized truck parking facilities are limited, with major junctions and transport corridors lacking proper arrangements. Drivers often resort to parking on the roadside for meals, rest, or vehicle maintenance, resulting in breakdowns that leave trucks stranded for extended periods. This has significantly contributed to traffic congestion, particularly in the town center.

Illegally parked trucks waiting to load minerals frequently obstruct lanes, causing traffic disruptions and impeding elephant movement through forest corridors. The regional transport office (RTO) has issued warnings to local truck owners' associations, but inadequate enforcement has led to ongoing violations, according to local residents. In 2021, the divisional forest officer (DFO) instructed mining companies to prohibit truck parking in wildlife movement zones, yet this directive appears to be disregarded in areas like Suakati, Joda, Barbil, and Rugudi.

Environmental advocates have raised alarms about the Forest Department's inaction under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, despite evident violations. Similarly, Keonjhar Municipality has reached out to the District Truck Owners' Association, requesting that the new bus terminal area not be used for truck parking.

Despite these efforts, adherence to regulations remains low. Pradip Barik, president of the Keonjhar Truck Owners' Association, stated that the administration has not provided sufficient designated parking areas, compelling drivers to park irresponsibly. He noted that government agencies show little concern for the challenges faced by truck owners, and mining companies are reluctant to offer parking solutions. Truck owner Sachidananda Mohapatra called for regular patrols and fines for parking violations, emphasizing that this would enhance revenue and promote responsible behavior among drivers.

Advocate Ashok Das highlighted that when illegal parking or breakdowns occur on NHs, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) must take swift action. He criticized the agency for its reactive approach, stating that it only responds after accidents happen. Das insisted that all parties involved should be held accountable.