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The ongoing road construction in Budumbrum has brought the promise of better infrastructure, but it has also created a series of challenges for those who work and travel along the affected streets, particularly street vendors and moto riders. The constant dust stirred up by the construction is not only making the area unpleasant but is also posing serious health and safety risks.
Street vendors, who rely on the steady flow of customers walking by, are feeling the impact most. “It’s like we’re living in a dust storm every day,” said one food vendor. “My customers don’t want to sit down to eat anymore because they’re afraid of the dust. It’s hard to keep my products clean, and it’s affecting my sales.”
The dust is also taking a toll on health. Many vendors have reported respiratory issues such as coughing and sore throats. “I can’t even remember the last time I worked without coughing,” said a woman selling clothes along the street. “The dust is everywhere — in the air, on my goods, and even in my lungs. It’s hard to stay healthy in these conditions.”
Moto riders, who navigate the dusty roads daily, are facing similar difficulties. “Riding through this dust is dangerous,” said one moto rider. “The visibility is so poor that it’s hard to see other vehicles or obstacles in the road. I’ve had several near misses because of the dust.”
For many riders, the dust isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s a significant safety hazard. “Sometimes, I can’t even see the traffic signs, and the potholes are harder to spot,” explained another rider. “The dust makes it much harder to ride safely, and the risk of accidents increases.”
One common solution that vendors and riders suggest is consistent water spraying on the road. “If they could just spray the road with water throughout the day, it would help keep the dust down,” said a food vendor. “This would make a big difference in our ability to work and move around safely. The dust is a problem every day, but it could be controlled with a little effort.”
Despite these challenges, many people remain hopeful that the road construction will eventually lead to better conditions. “We know that once the road is finished, things will improve,” said one vendor. “But right now, we need help. We can’t keep working like this every day. A little water on the road would go a long way in making things bearable.”
As the construction continues, there is a growing call from the community for contractors and local authorities to take more immediate action to reduce the dust. Regular water spraying or other dust control measures could help alleviate the strain on vendors, moto riders, and anyone else who has to navigate the area daily.
In the meantime, people are doing their best to adapt, covering their faces with scarves, limiting outdoor activities, and seeking medical attention for respiratory problems. The road construction may promise a smoother, dust-free future, but for now, the daily challenges are mounting.
Story by Efua Nessa
Source: Loco tv