<![CDATA[Road infrastructure development is expected to improve the welfare of rural communities. The Liang Melas Datas area in Karo Regency experienced severe road damage for more than two decades, which constrained mobility, public-service access, and agricultural distribution. This study analyzes the social and economic impacts of road construction implemented during 2022-2024. A descriptive qualitative case-study design was employed. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving 12 informants comprising village heads and residents of Kutambelin, Polatebu, and Kuta Pengkih. Data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model through data collection, reduction, display, and conclusion verification. The findings indicate that improved roads facilitated mobility, social interaction, and access to education and health services, although emergency health referrals still required approximately 40 minutes. Economically, informants estimated an income increase of 20-30%, while corn transportation costs declined from IDR 25,000 to IDR 6,000 per sack. Agricultural marketing expanded, and small businesses, transportation services, and tourism activities began to develop. However, these benefits remained uneven because most residents depended on traditional agriculture and faced limited capital and skills. Community empowerment, public-service improvement, and local economic development are therefore required to optimize the road’s benefits.]]>
Copyrights © 2026
