In the Banaskantha district of Gujarat, the road connecting Lakhani to the famous Gela pilgrimage site has fallen into disrepair. This four-kilometre stretch is riddled with potholes, making travel difficult for drivers and pilgrims alike. Thousands visit the ancient Hanuman temple in Gela every Saturday, resulting in heavy traffic on this road. Locals are calling for urgent repairs to be made.
The Gela village is well-known for its historic Shri Phal Hanuman Mandir, which attracts many devotees from distant places. They travel on foot and by vehicle to pay their respects. However, the condition of the road is becoming a major issue. The potholes are not just an inconvenience; they pose a safety risk to drivers and passengers.
The road also connects many nearby villages, including Gela, Ganta, Lalpur, and Dodiya, making it a crucial route for commerce as well. Local merchants and residents have expressed their frustration. They say the dilapidated condition of the road is affecting their daily lives.
Local leaders and officials often visit the Gela temple, and many are questioning why they have not addressed the road issues. With significant foot and vehicle traffic, it is surprising that the poor state of the road has not been fixed. Residents are urging both local MLAs from the Tharad and Lakhani-Diyod constituencies to allocate funds for repairs.
A local devotee stated, “The Hanuman temple is a miraculous and renowned place of worship. Every Saturday, a large fair is held, and thousands come to seek blessings. But the road from Lakhani to Gela is now in shambles, making it very hard for us to travel. We demand immediate action to repair the road.”
The local government has a responsibility to ensure that roads are safe and accessible. The neglect of this vital route is concerning, especially as it affects the livelihood of many in the area.
In addition, following a recent incident involving fireworks in the region, local authorities have begun inspecting shops for safety compliance. The Gela Gram Panchayat has been proactive in ensuring that shops do not stock dangerous materials. They have advised shopkeepers to maintain fire safety equipment and have conducted checks to ensure compliance.
The community is calling for swift action not only on the road repairs but also for continued safety measures in local businesses. The hope is that with increased attention from officials, improvements will be made to both the road and the safety conditions in the area, ensuring a better experience for pilgrims and residents alike.
In conclusion, the poor state of the Gela-Lakhani road is a pressing issue that needs immediate action. Local voices are advocating for urgent repairs and greater safety measures, highlighting the need for government intervention to improve the conditions that affect many lives in this vibrant community.
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