The crumbling roads of Bengaluru are once again drawing the ire of residents, as numerous potholes mar the city’s major streets despite extensive repairs undertaken earlier this year. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) had reportedly resurfaced over a thousand kilometres of roads in preparation for the assembly and parliamentary elections, but deteriorating conditions have re-emerged, raising both safety concerns and questions over the durability of public works.
Bengaluru citizens express frustration as potholes, large enough to damage vehicles and cause accidents, litter the roads. The condition of these streets has become a serious hazard, especially as the city experiences heavy rains, worsening these problems. For everyday commuters and business operators, navigating these poorly maintained roads is not only a safety concern but also adds to travel times and operational costs. One resident mentioned, “Travelling even short distances is exhausting, and the risk of accidents increases every day. We wonder when the BBMP will find a long-term solution.”
With an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 new potholes forming during the monsoon season, the recurring road damage highlights the need for sustainable urban infrastructure. While BBMP allocated substantial funds towards road repairs earlier this year, the quality of work appears insufficient to withstand natural wear. Sustainable materials and methods, proven to last longer and withstand adverse weather, have been applied successfully in other cities globally and may offer a way forward for Bengaluru’s infrastructure issues.
From an urban perspective, the road conditions impact Bengaluru’s reputation as a growing hub for technology and business. As the city positions itself on the global stage, consistent infrastructure failures could impede investor confidence, making these issues more than a civic inconvenience. Addressing them requires not only improved resource allocation but also enhanced accountability measures for contractors. Bengaluru’s residents hope for prompt action from authorities, advocating for reliable infrastructure to meet the demands of a modern metropolis.
