The Challenge – A Road Lost to Rain
In Panasalodhi village, located in G.K. Veedhi of Alluri Sitarama Raju district, the seasonal rains didn’t just bring water—they washed away access. With no durable road and constant wear from heavy rainfall, the path connecting the village became nearly impassable. What had once been a connector of markets, schools, and health centres turned into a stretch of pits, stones, and overgrowth.
Collective Action – Repairing More Than a Road
Rather than wait for external intervention, the people of Panasalodhi decided to act.
Over 60 villagers came together and, in just one day, restored the road through a community-led effort under Goonj’s Cloth for Work (CFW) initiative. The work covered a stretch of 2 kilometers, with a width of 6 meters.
Tasks included:
- Clearing bushes and stones blocking the path
- Filling potholes with a mix of soil and local stones
- Smoothing the surface to improve access
What was once a rugged, broken route is now a safer passage—rebuilt with collective will.
Villagers clearing road and filling potholes
Recognition with Dignity
As a recognition of their effort, Goonj rewarded the participants with Cloth for Work kits. These kits—carefully curated with essentials—serve as a gesture of acknowledgment, not charity.
This approach reflects Goonj’s belief: contribution and dignity go hand in hand.
A Path Reopened, Possibilities Reimagined
Today, the repaired road supports not just movement—but momentum. Children walk safely to school. Farmers reach markets with ease. Health workers and emergency vehicles can access the village faster.
What started as a day of labor has led to lasting impact—proving once again that solutions don’t always come from outside. Sometimes, they begin right at home, with the people themselves.
Smooth and usable road after repair by Panasalodhi villagers
Be a Part of Change
Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
