Editorial | Highway Potholes Demand Urgent Attention

Roads are meant to connect people, support economic activity and make daily travel easier. However, when potholes remain unattended on highways, they turn routine journeys into risky experiences. The continued neglect of damaged road surfaces raises serious questions about road safety, maintenance and the accountability of the agencies responsible for keeping highways in good condition.

Potholes may appear to be a minor problem to those who travel in official vehicles or use these roads occasionally. For daily commuters, public transport drivers, two-wheeler riders and patients travelling to hospitals, they can become a constant source of fear and inconvenience. A sudden pothole can force a driver to brake sharply or swerve without warning. Such movements can lead to collisions, particularly on busy highways where vehicles travel at considerable speeds.

The danger becomes greater during rain, when water collects inside potholes and hides their actual depth. Drivers may fail to judge the damaged portion of the road until it is too late. Motorcyclists and cyclists face an even greater risk because a single mistake can result in serious injuries.

The problem becomes more concerning when potholes remain unrepaired despite repeated complaints from commuters. Highway authorities must understand that road maintenance is not a task that can be postponed indefinitely. Every delay increases the possibility of an accident and adds to the suffering of ordinary people.

Authorities responsible for highways must adopt a practical and time-bound approach. Regular inspections should identify damaged stretches before they become major hazards. Temporary repairs can provide immediate relief, but permanent repairs must follow wherever necessary. Officials should also ensure that contractors complete work according to prescribed standards and that poor-quality repairs do not fail after the first spell of rain.

Accountability is equally important. The public deserves clear information about who is responsible for maintaining a particular road, when repairs will begin and how long the work is expected to take. Complaints from residents and commuters should receive prompt attention rather than routine assurances.

At the same time, road users must remain alert and follow speed limits, especially on damaged stretches. However, responsible driving cannot replace the duty of authorities to provide safe roads.

Highways are essential public infrastructure. Their condition directly affects public safety, trade, tourism and daily life. Leaving potholes unattended means putting lives at unnecessary risk.

The concerned departments must act before another accident draws attention to a problem that could have been prevented. Timely repairs, regular inspections and clear accountability are essential. Every pothole repaired on time is a step towards safer travel and greater public trust.