Bhopal's Investor Summit Road Repairs Now Pothole-Ridden, Mayor Admits No Funds Sought
When Bhopal hosted the Global Investors Summit (GIS) in February of last year, the city underwent an extensive beautification drive to present a modern and investor-friendly image. The state government sanctioned nearly Rs 18 crore through the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Public Works Department (PWD) for road relaying and related infrastructure works. However, a year later, the sheen has worn off dramatically, revealing a landscape of short-term fixes.
Deterioration of Hasty Repairs
Many of the roads that were hurriedly relaid for the summit are now riddled with potholes and cracks. Pavements, once neatly tiled to encourage pedestrian activity, show broken slabs and uneven surfaces. What was intended as a showcase of urban infrastructure has, in several key areas, turned into a stark reminder of compromised quality and rushed deadlines.
Commuters and local residents express widespread frustration."The approach road around VIP Road and those connecting to the convention centre was smooth for a few months, but now it is full of cracks," said a local shopkeeper in New Market. Pedestrians point out that pavements are either damaged or encroached upon, undermining their purpose and safety.
Official Response and Funding Issues
Bhopal Mayor Malti Rai acknowledged the situation, stating, "Funds were sanctioned to the BMC for road relaying, though the exact figure rests with the officials." However, she revealed a critical oversight: since the Global Investors Summit and even after the 2025 monsoon—a period when the corporation traditionally seeks allocations for repairs—major road relaying across the capital remains pending.
"The BMC did not seek additional funds from the state government for maintenance. From time to time, we do receive allocations," Rai added, confirming that no specific request for road repair funds was made post-monsoon in 2025. This admission highlights a gap in proactive infrastructure management following the high-profile event.
Broader Implications for Urban Development
The deterioration of these roads raises questions about the sustainability of such beautification projects. Key issues include:
- Quality Compromise: The rush to meet summit deadlines likely led to substandard construction, as evidenced by the rapid appearance of potholes.
- Lack of Follow-up: The failure to request maintenance funds post-monsoon indicates a disconnect between initial projects and long-term upkeep.
- Public Inconvenience: Commuters and pedestrians face daily hazards, undermining the city's reputation and quality of life.
This situation serves as a cautionary tale for other cities planning similar events, emphasizing the need for durable infrastructure and consistent maintenance to avoid reverting to pre-summit conditions. The focus must shift from temporary showcases to enduring urban solutions that benefit residents and investors alike.
