The long-standing issue of waterlogging at the underpass near Panjwara railway halt in Banka district's Barahat block has finally caught the attention of senior railway officials. Manish Kumar, DRM of the erstwhile Malda Railway Division, visited Panjwara on Saturday during a surprise inspection of the Bhagalpur-Dumka railway section. A large number of villagers gathered at the railway halt upon his arrival, gheraoed the DRM, and protested against the railway administration regarding the poor condition of the underpass.

More than two dozen villagers, including former RJD block president Omprakash Yadav, Congress's Suresh Prasad Yadav, Gautam Kumar Yadav, and former mukhiya representative Rupesh Das, submitted a signed memorandum to the DRM. Villagers stated that the underpass was constructed for public convenience but has become a major nuisance due to the lack of proper drainage. After rainfall, a significant amount of water accumulates, causing immense difficulty for pedestrians, motorcyclists, and local residents. Many are forced to take long alternative routes, while some reluctantly navigate through the waterlogged passage.

DRM Manish Kumar personally inspected the underpass, assessing the accumulated water and the drainage system. He gathered detailed information about the problem from the villagers. They informed him that the lack of a permanent drainage system leads to this problem every monsoon season. They alleged that despite this, the railway administration has not taken any concrete steps. Villagers demanded that the DRM implement a permanent drainage system and make the underpass suitable for traffic in all seasons.

After assessing the actual situation, the DRM took the matter seriously and assured the villagers that the issue would be investigated, and efforts would be made to find a solution soon. While the DRM's assurance has given villagers hope, they emphasize that mere promises are not enough, and the railway administration must implement a concrete drainage system for a permanent solution.