The much-publicized 15-day deadline set by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to fix Bengaluru's dangerous potholes has come and gone, yet the city's roads remain riddled with craters that continue to endanger commuters and disrupt daily life.
The Broken Promise
In early October, CM Siddaramaiah had issued a stern directive to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), giving officials just 15 days to make the city's roads pothole-free. This deadline expired on Tuesday, but ground reality tells a completely different story.
Ground Reality: Business as Usual
Across Bengaluru, from major thoroughfares to residential areas, the pothole menace persists. Commuters continue to navigate these road hazards, risking vehicle damage and personal safety. The situation has become particularly perilous during the ongoing monsoon season, where water-filled potholes become invisible traps for motorists.
Public Outcry Grows
Frustrated citizens and commuters have taken to social media to document the poor condition of roads, sharing images and videos of dangerous potholes that could cause serious accidents. Many are questioning the effectiveness of the BBMP's repair work, noting that temporary fixes often wash away with the next heavy rainfall.
Safety Concerns Mount
The persistent pothole problem poses multiple threats:
- Road accidents: Two-wheeler riders are particularly vulnerable to losing control
- Vehicle damage: Cars and motorcycles suffer suspension and tire damage
- Traffic congestion: Vehicles slowing down to navigate potholes cause jams
- Pedestrian risk: Walkers and cyclists face increased danger
What's Next for Bengaluru?
With the deadline expired and the problem largely unresolved, citizens are waiting to see what action the state government will take against BBMP officials for failing to meet the CM's directive. The question remains whether this infrastructure crisis will receive the serious attention it demands or if Bengaluru's commuters must continue to endure these hazardous conditions.
