Bengaluru’s Pothole Crisis: A Betrayal of Public Trust
Bengaluru, India’s tech capital, is celebrated for its innovation—but its crumbling roads tell a different story. Despite repeated claims by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to fix potholes, CNN News18’s ground report by Rohini Swamy reveals a city struggling with dangerous craters, accidents, and systemic failures.
The Failed Pothole-Free Pledge
In 2022, BBMP vowed to eliminate potholes using AI monitoring and increased funding. Yet, in 2024, key areas like Outer Ring Road, Silk Board Junction, and Old Airport Road remain riddled with deep potholes. Temporary fixes vanish with the rains, leaving roads worse than before.
Lives at Risk: Accidents and Public Anger
- Fatalities & Injuries: Multiple accidents, including deaths, have been linked to potholes. Two-wheeler riders face the highest risk.
- Health Hazards: Waterlogged craters breed mosquitoes, worsening dengue and malaria risks.
- Taxpayer Frustration: “We pay high taxes, but where’s the accountability?” asks a Marathahalli commuter.
Why Potholes Persist: Corruption & Poor Planning
- Substandard Repairs: Contractors use cheap materials, leading to quick deterioration.
- No Coordination: Multiple agencies (BBMP, BWSSB, traffic police) dig up roads without proper restoration.
- VIP Fixes: Potholes are patched only before inspections or minister visits.
BBMP’s Excuses vs. Reality
Officials blame heavy rain and traffic but admit to delays. Chief Commissioner Tushar Girinath claims “cold mix technology” helps, yet locals say repairs don’t last a week.
Solutions: What Bengaluru Needs
- Accountability: Penalize corrupt contractors and monitor quality strictly.
- Durable Materials: Use long-lasting road construction techniques.
- Centralized Authority: One agency to manage all road work.
- Citizen Action: Apps like FixMyStreet must trigger faster responses.
Conclusion: A City Held Back by Broken Roads
Bengaluru’s global ambitions clash with its crumbling infrastructure. Until transparency and systemic reforms happen, residents will keep battling potholes—and broken promises.
Follow CNN News18 for more ground reports on civic issues.
