Road Dispute in Rollapalem: Villagers Stage Road Blockade Demand for Strict Action Against Those Obstructing the Road

 

               SRINIVAS SPL Correspondant 
Amalapuram: Indian News Times: Tense conditions have prevailed in Rollapalem village, located in the Amalapuram Rural Mandal of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema District. Villagers staged a massive road blockade (rasta-roko), alleging that certain individuals were creating obstructions on the Chittigaru road—a route that has served as the primary access link for the village for four decades. Women, the elderly, farmers, and youth sat down on the road to express their protest. According to the villagers, residents have been utilizing this specific route for their daily commute to and from the village for the past 40 years. However, they alleged that over the last few years, certain individuals have been stirring up controversy regarding this road, thereby hindering the public's freedom of movement. The villagers stated that these individuals are causing distress to the public by placing sticks, stones, concrete blocks, and other obstacles right in the middle of the road.

Speaking on the occasion, Shavala Rajasekhar, a resident of the village, alleged that some individuals are obstructing the road—which the villagers have utilized for decades—by falsely claiming it as their personal property. He noted that actions such as threatening those who attempt to use the path, blocking vehicles, and warning those who question them with legal cases have become commonplace. He added that these actions have instilled fear and anxiety among the villagers.
The villagers lamented that they face difficulties in vehicle movement during all occasions—whether it be during auspicious village events or in emergency situations.  They stated that this road serves as the primary route for all essential needs—whether it is students commuting to schools, farmers heading to their fields for agricultural work, or patients being transported to hospitals. They expressed particular concern over situations where ambulances are unable to arrive on time to provide emergency medical services. The villagers alleged that, despite the issue persisting for the past three years, officials have failed to provide a permanent solution. They noted that even after bringing the matter to the attention of Revenue, Police, and Panchayat officials on multiple occasions, the problem remains unresolved. They added that public outrage intensified recently when an attempt was made to completely block off the road.

Against this backdrop, the villagers announced that they have decided to voluntarily collect contributions and undertake the construction of the road themselves. They declared their readiness to improve the road using their own funds and appealed to the government and officials to cooperate by refraining from creating any obstacles to this effort. Upon receiving this information, Revenue and Police officials arrived at the scene to assess the situation. It is reported that they received petitions from the villagers and gave assurances that they would conduct a thorough examination of the issue and initiate appropriate legal action. Speaking on the matter, the villagers urged the authorities to put an end to the disputes surrounding this road—which has been in public use for four decades—and to provide a permanent resolution. They demanded that strict action be taken against anyone obstructing public movement. They warned that their struggle would continue until the issue is resolved. These developments in Rollapalem village have become a major topic of discussion in the local area. The villagers are of the opinion that officials need to respond promptly and provide clarity regarding roads that serve essential public needs.