MAPUSA
Despite the ongoing efforts by authorities to repair damaged roads and patch up potholes ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, road contractors are quietly acknowledging the near-impossibility of achieving lasting results during the monsoon season.
With intermittent showers complicating their work, many contractors admit that their efforts may offer only temporary relief, with potholes likely to reappear soon after being filled.
Temporary fixes,
permanent problems
Road contractors have expressed frustration over the limitations of their current repair methods.
"No matter how well we fill the potholes, they will reappear after a few days due to the rain and the continuous movement of traffic," one contractor explained.
The use of bituminous material, which is typically effective, becomes problematic during the monsoon.
"Yes, it may give temporary relief for a few days, but the potholes will definitely reappear. Bituminous material cannot be used during the monsoon," the contractor added.
Another contractor echoed these concerns, emphasising that the use of temporary materials for road repairs is futile during heavy rainfall.
"One heavy spell, and the entire repair work will be washed away, posing more risk to commuters," the contractor warned.
Experts and
activists weigh in
Road experts have suggested that cold mix materials can be used during the monsoon as a temporary measure, though they acknowledge that these solutions are far from ideal.
"There are several stretches where the roads are in poor shape. These roads should have been repaired ahead of the monsoon," an expert noted, highlighting the need for better planning and proactive measures.
RTI activist Jawaharlal Shetye criticised the Public Works Department (PWD) for failing to maintain proper standards in road repairs and maintenance.
"The maintenance of the roads is very poor, as the PWD did not follow proper standards for repairs and maintenance. Commuters have no option but to suffer," Shetye said.
He also pointed out that the lack of accountability has led to a culture of neglect.
"No officer or contractor has ever been penalised for bad roads, so nobody is bothered," Shetye lamented.
Govt accountability
and PWD’s role
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has recently placed the responsibility for repairing potholed roads squarely on the shoulders of contractors and engineers.
In a stern message, Sawant criticised PWD engineers for the substandard quality of road work and stated that they would be held accountable for any accidents resulting from poor road conditions.
"Engineers will be held accountable for accidents that occur in the State," the Chief Minister declared, making it clear that the issue of road safety is a top priority for the government.
As the monsoon season continues to challenge road repair efforts, the situation underscores the urgent need for better infrastructure planning and stricter adherence to maintenance standards to ensure the safety and well-being of all commuters.
