Why is it the same old story when it comes to potholes?

Now, of course, the clock is ticking for the monsoon but even if something needs to be done in two-three days it should be done so, pronto

The BMC administration has directed roads department officials to ensure that potholes are filled within 24 hours of being brought to their notice—either directly, through the MyBMC Pothole FixIt app, or the civic body’s chatbot.

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With rain-ready being the buzzword, potholes become the most potent symbol of the season. We have seen and unfortunately may have witnessed, even been hurt ourselves, pothole-related injuries in Mumbai, with this one crater on our roads in many ways, a prominent feature and obstacle during these months. 

Now, of course, the clock is ticking for the monsoon but even if something needs to be done in two-three days it should be done so, pronto.

We also must see that all the helplines and avenues where people are supposed to complain, are working, accessible and truly effective. While there is a team to attend to the pothole complaints, citizens are often frustrated that there is so much rigmarole and passing the buck, after complaints are filed. There is also the common retort post pothole mishaps. Workers state that they are unable to carry out repairs as continuous rain is a hindrance. While this may very well be true, if there is a significant, deep depression signage warning vehicles should be considered. 

Drivers must cut their speed during this season. Vehicles must be working well, especially brake checks and wipers do the job, as visibility is a significant problem. Two-wheelers, many of them guilty of simply riding through signals, going the wrong way and taking U-turns and short cuts, climbing onto pavements (the bollards have stopped this at certain junctures but not brought it to a complete halt) need to be stopped. It may be time for a concerted campaign against this flagrant flouting of laws. Rain ready equals to road ready in this commuting-centric city.

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