Where a Missing Road Stood in the Way, People Chose Action
Sahpura, a small village located 30 km from Ashoknagar district, Madhya Pradesh had been struggling for years without an accessible road. In monsoons, the path turned into a stretch of mud and puddles, and in summers, clouds of dust made movement difficult. For children, elders, and farmers, daily life has become a challenge.
A Long-Pending Need Turned Into a People-Led Solution
To openly discuss the issue and explore solutions, the Goonj team facilitated a community meeting where villagers shared their concerns. The lack of a proper road emerged as the biggest barrier to mobility and dignity. When our team motivated, mobilised and enabled the villagers, the entire village came forward to repair the road. Men, women, youth — everyone participated. Equipped with shovels, baskets, and spades, they cleared the pathway, removed shrubs, and filled pits. Strengthened the road with soil and stones and leveled the surface to ensure durability during rains. After three days of shramdaan, continuous collective labour, a strong, usable road was ready — not just built of mud and stone, but of unity, ownership, and shared hope.
Community Working to Build Road
Impact & Recognition
The new road completely transformed daily life:
- Children now reach school safely
- Farmers can easily travel to their fields
- Visitors and emergency vehicles can enter the village without hesitation
To recognise and celebrate the community’s dedication, Goonj rewarded the families with Family Kits, which included winter clothing and essential items. This was not charity — it was a reward for their hard work, symbolising respect for people-led development.
Newly Built Village Road
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..
