Villagers Voice Road, Health, and Connectivity Concerns in West Singhbhum

Residents of Chhota Bakau village, located in Pandalvir Panchayat, West Singhbhum, gathered for a Gram Sabha to strongly advocate for the resolution of long-standing local problems. Chaired by village elders Budhay Singh Savaiya and Jitra Savaiya, and attended by Panchayat Head Motaye Boypai, the meeting showcased a deep sense of community concern. The severely deteriorated village road was a major point of discussion, impacting the daily lives and accessibility for inhabitants. Participants also expressed their dismay over the stalled construction of a bridge on a mountain stream, a project left incomplete after initial surveys, thereby isolating the village. The lack of reliable mobile network service, even with a tower in place, was highlighted as a significant barrier to communication, particularly during emergencies. The critical shortage of a Sahia for two months has meant that pregnant women are not receiving necessary healthcare. The village’s health sub-center building, though constructed, remains inactive, adding to healthcare challenges. Social worker Ramesh Balmchu and advocate Mahendra Jamuda engaged with the community, understanding their concerns. Jamuda pledged to present these issues to the Deputy Commissioner and push for immediate administrative intervention to fix the road, complete the bridge, make the health sub-center operational, and improve mobile network reception.