Massive Insect Swarm Brings Traffic to a Standstill on Kharasrota Bridge in Jajpur
Jajpur, November 9, 2025 — A dense swarm of insects caused major traffic disruption on the Kharasrota Bridge in Jajpur on the night of November 8, leaving commuters stranded and triggering safety concerns.
Eyewitnesses described thousands of insects flying across the bridge, drawn to vehicle headlights during the seasonal transition to winter.
The swarm created visibility issues and made the road surface dangerously slippery, resulting in multiple minor accidents. Two-wheelers were particularly affected, with riders struggling to maintain balance, while larger vehicles were forced to halt.
Local residents say this phenomenon recurs annually, yet no preventive measures have been implemented. “The buzzing was deafening, and the road was slick with insects. Even braking didn’t help,” said one commuter.
The insects are believed to nest along the riverbanks and nearby forests, emerging as temperatures dip. Their attraction to artificial lights exacerbates the problem, especially after dark.
Despite repeated complaints, authorities have yet to act. With the Kharasrota Bridge serving as a vital link between Jajpur and Bhubaneswar, residents are demanding urgent intervention to prevent future chaos and ensure commuter safety.
