The Sonatala–Velurpara Road in Bogra has remained in a dilapidated condition for nearly seven years, exposing thousands of commuters to daily hardship and increasing the risk of accidents, according to local residents.
The seven-kilometre road, stretching from Sonatala Match Factory to Velurpara Charmatha Bazar, has not undergone major repairs for years. Its worn-out asphalt surface has given way to numerous potholes and craters, making travel increasingly hazardous.
During rainfall, water collects in the potholes, rendering parts of the road nearly impassable. Residents said vehicles frequently lose control or fall into the potholes, particularly at night, while passengers are forced to endure severe jolts throughout the journey.
Locals, including Badiuzzaman, Sirajul Islam, Mizanur Rahman and Syed Ali, said repeated appeals to the authorities have yielded no visible action. They alleged that the road's poor condition has disrupted daily life, with students, teachers and office-goers often failing to reach their destinations on time.
"The road has become almost unusable due to years of neglect," one resident said, adding that the deteriorating condition has also increased vehicle maintenance costs and travel time.
Jorgachha Union Parishad Chairman Golam Rabbani described the road as a vital transport link connecting four neighbouring upazilas. He said thousands of people use the route every day to travel to different parts of the country and urged the authorities to undertake immediate reconstruction.
Sonatala Upazila Engineer Abdur Rashid, who recently joined the upazila, acknowledged the road's importance. He said the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) would take steps to expedite repairs after consulting the local member of parliament.
Residents have urged the authorities to begin renovation work without further delay to ensure safe and uninterrupted movement on the busy route.
