Ex-cricketer and MLA Ashok Dinda picks up hammer to repair Moyna roads after years of neglect

An unusual scene unfolded in Moyna on Wednesday when local MLA and former Indian cricketer Ashok Dinda was seen repairing roads with a hammer. Leaving behind his cricket bat and ball, Dinda joined his supporters to break bricks and fill potholes on damaged stretches.

The MLA alleged that nearly 7 kilometers of roads in the area have been in a dilapidated state for the past four years. Despite writing to the Public Works Department, district council, and the state assembly, he claimed no authority acted on the complaints. “Now we had to take matters into our own hands. We will repair the damaged roads ourselves as much as we can,” Dinda said.

However, the Trinamool Congress criticized his act, calling it politically motivated. Party leaders alleged that Dinda’s move was less about people’s welfare and more about gaining attention ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. They claimed he was trying to stay relevant in the public eye.

The unusual protest highlighted growing frustration in Mayna over the state of its roads and the delay in government action. Residents witnessed their MLA take up tools usually left to workers, sparking both appreciation and political debate.