Good roads shows respect for citizens by authorities

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Potholes are the least of motorists' concerns while commuting on the 17-km New Link Road stretch below Metro Line 2A from DN Nagar to Dahisar. When this paper's reporter went to the spot, deep cracks, tiles poking out of paver blocks, scattered gravel from worn-out speed breakers and caved-in manhole covers were also seen. There were also sewer lids with sharp metal corners that could puncture tyres.

The 3.4-km stretch between Inorbit Mall in Malad West and Lalji Pada in Kandivli tends to witness traffic congestion. Locals claim this takes 1.5 hours at times to traverse this section and loose tiles in front of an autorickshaw stand at Lalji Pada Chowk compels them to park on the road.

Chikku Wadi in Borivli West was one of many places on the stretch below Metro Line 2A from DN Nagar to Dahisar where sharp metal corners of sewer lids protrude onto the road.

We need attention and solutions here, primarily because the season too, means hazardous terrain and driving dangerously. First up of course are caved in manhole covers, which can be extremely dangerous, for cars and more so for people. Manhole covers are a perennial subject of discussion and debate but the bottom-line is that if not in perfect condition they are hazardous, period, and need to be replaced as fast as possible. Take into account an overcast, wet day and all the risks are doubled if not trebled.

Gravel from speed breakers has to be cleared, this is not a mammoth task and can be achieved fairly quickly. Most of us have witnessed and in unfortunate cases, tripped over loose tiles or dislodged infra. Even if this is not repaired quickly, it can at least be cleared away.

While on the face of it, this may not seem major because we have sadly become inured to such conditions, the repercussions and ramifications can be deadly. Move with alacrity and intent.