With the onset of monsoon, the problem of potholes has become a common thing due to the poor condition of roads. Citizens face a lot of inconvenience while commuting on roads filled with potholes and pits. However, recently, these potholes turned fatal for a man in Valsad.
Apparently, today (July 8) on Pardi Highway, a biker lost his balance due to the potholes on the road, and fell down. After which, the biker was hit by a truck, which killed him on the spot. Although the man had worn a helmet, he died due to the accident.
Potholes, often dismissed as minor inconveniences, have emerged as serious threats to life and safety, like in this case. The Pardi Highway of Valsad reportedly has potholes all over the road owing to rainfall. These potholes create trouble for the commuters. As the accident took place, locals gathered on the spot and staged a dharna by sitting on the road. This caused a traffic jam on the highway.
People sat at the spot of the accident and demanded justice for the victim. They alleged that proper facilities are not being provided despite collecting toll tax from the citizens. The protesters also said that more people would lose their lives if the potholed roads are not repaired. They further alleged that the administration does not care about the lives of the common people.
Meanwhile, police reached the spot and pacified the protesting locals. The traffic was also cleared. The police have registered a case of accidental death. The deceased’s body has been sent for post-mortem; however, the deceased has not been identified yet. On the other hand, the police are also questioning the truck driver, who has been detained. Further investigations will be conducted based on the CCTV footages of the area.
Citizens routinely pay taxes and tolls with the expectation of safe, motorable roads. Public frustration is justified when potholes remain unattended for months and only attract attention after fatal accidents. It’s high time that the administration steps in and takes the necessary measures to repair the potholed roads in order to prevent more accidents.