Jhalokathi, July 19 (V7N) - A vital unpaved road in Rajapur Upazila of Jhalokathi district has become a symbol of extreme suffering for local residents and schoolchildren. Connecting two key institutions—Anwara Khatun Secondary School and Sultan Ahmed Government Primary School—the road is now heavily waterlogged and muddy due to continuous monsoon rains, making it nearly impossible to traverse.
 
A visit to the site on July 19 revealed knee-deep mud and large potholes along the entire stretch. Residents say bicycles and motorcycles cannot pass, and even walking has become dangerous. Parents are forced to send their children to school under unsafe conditions. During monsoon season, the road resembles a channel of sludge, causing fear and frustration among locals.
 
Despite repeated promises of repair, no action has been taken. Locals allege that three separate government allocations were made in recent years for the road's reconstruction, but no actual work was carried out. "They’ve pocketed the money—didn’t do a thing!" one villager claimed. However, due to fear of political retaliation, most people avoid speaking out openly.
 
One concerned resident took to Facebook, writing: “I see everything, hear everything, understand everything… but I say nothing. I don’t support political vengeance. I won’t name those who looted funds. But if someone is inspired to fix the road, I have no objection.”
 
The road runs past rows of trees and along the boundary wall of a school. Young children are seen wading through muddy water daily just to attend classes. The situation poses a serious risk to their safety and well-being.
 
No local representatives, union council officials, or engineers from the concerned government department have taken any visible action to address the issue. Residents are now demanding immediate repair of the road and urging the relevant authorities to intervene without further delay.
 
Given the importance of safe access to education and the daily suffering of schoolchildren and their families, local communities are calling for urgent and accountable government response.
 
ENE/AIJ/SMA/