Dharmendra Pradhan Seeks Crackdown on Illegal Truck Parking in Odisha Mining Corridors

In a letter to the Chief Minister, Pradhan expressed concern over the increasing number of mineral-laden trucks occupying stretches of national and state highways, particularly in mining-intensive districts.

He noted that inadequate logistics planning and the absence of dedicated parking infrastructure have led to long queues of heavy vehicles on roads, causing traffic congestion and posing serious safety risks to commuters.

The Sambalpur MP highlighted that unchecked roadside parking of trucks has become a major road safety challenge, contributing to accidents and disrupting the smooth movement of vehicles.

He stressed the need for urgent intervention to ensure safer highways and efficient transportation management in Odisha’s industrial regions.

Pradhan also referred to a recent Supreme Court directive emphasising that safe travel on highways forms an integral part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.

The order underscored that heavy vehicles should not be parked on highway carriageways or shoulders except at designated parking facilities.

Drawing attention to the provisions of the Odisha State Highways Authority Act, 2025, he said authorities have sufficient powers to regulate highway safety, impose penalties, and take action against unsafe transport practices.

Among his key recommendations, Pradhan called for holding mining and industrial companies accountable for transport-related congestion, developing off-highway truck holding areas, activating district-level road safety task forces, and ensuring strict enforcement of parking regulations.

He also suggested awareness campaigns to educate stakeholders about safe transportation practices.

The issue assumes significance as Odisha’s mining corridors witness heavy movement of transport vehicles daily, making effective traffic and logistics management crucial for public safety and infrastructure sustainability.