RR Nagar stretch alone has 35 craters

BENGALURU: The BBMP claims there are no potholes in Rajarajeshwari Nagar zone. But a reality check on a 5km stretch in RR Nagar on Friday afternoon revealed it was dotted with at least 35 potholes. The corporator admitted there are over 10,000 potholes in her ward.
The reality check by TOI began around 12.15pm on Uttarahalli Main Road and this reporter traversed 4km before entering Halagevaderahalli Main Road and culminating the ride at RR Nagar arch in 30 minutes.The 5km stretch, which could have been covered in 10 minutes on any twowheeler, took half an hour because the potholes required deft manoeuvering to avoid damage to shock-absorbers. The 1km Halligevaderhalli Main Road is being widened from two to four lanes. RR Nagar chief engineer Nagaraj confirmed there are 30 potholes on the stretch but blamed the infrastructure wing of the major roads division.
“I’m aware of the many potholes but they don’t come under my department as it’s a major road,” Nagaraj said. However, executive engineer (major roads) Nandeesh claimed the road was newly laid and if there are any potholes, they would be filled.
RR Nagar corporator Nalini Manju blamed the Palike for not doing the needful. “There are nearly 10,000 potholes in my ward and the BBMP doesn’t pay any heed to our demands to repair them. I have written to the chief engineer and commissioner multiple times but nothing has changed,” added Manju.
Senior BBMP officials said their efforts to widen the road have run into opposition from interest groups with stakes in some properties lining the road. “The Palike sanctions only Rs 3 crore to fix roads. How can I do so with such a small amount? I often spend from my own pocket,” rued Manju.
“Potholes on Halagevaderahalli road are a major impediment. They are often filled in a shoddy manner and reappear at the slightest hint of rain,” said Lokesh Gowda, a shopkeeper. “I use the road every night. The potholes are not easily visible due to dim streetlights and the drive is back-breaking to say the least,” said Ramesh Arun, a resident.