Prayagraj: The growing number of potholes on main and arterial roads has turned commuting into a nightmare in Sangam City, prompting motorists, pedestrians and residents to demand accountability from the agencies concerned.Ironically, with the famous Dadhikando fairs scheduled to begin on Sept 12, the poor condition of roads has left management committees worried. Heavy rainfall on Wednesday morning further compounded commuters’ woes.The ordeal of city residents caused by potholes and damaged road surfaces continues unabated, regardless of the season. Commuters pointed out that despite a lull in rainfall, repair work has failed to gain momentum.UP Congress Committee general secretary Mukund Tiwari told TOI, “The condition of city roads is pathetic and could lead to accidents. Accountability of PMC and PWD officials must be fixed, as commuters are finding it difficult to drive.”Sushma, a regular commuter on Stanley Road, said: “Potholes can be seen on several roads. From Civil Lines Crossing to Teliyarganj and Phaphamau, which remain busy stretches, potholes and damaged roads are slowing traffic movement.”While officials of the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation (PMC) have assured that potholes will be repaired and filled at the earliest, commuters remain unconvinced.Civil Lines resident Sandeep Bhargava said, “At a time when the city is gearing up for the Dadhikando fair, which will be organised at six different locations, the condition of roads is miserable. Repair work should be completed before the event.”A PMC official claimed that authorities are conducting surveys of damaged roads to expedite repair and resurfacing work.“The work will be accelerated over the next few days,” the official said.Another concern raised by commuters is the presence of broken and uneven drainage chamber lids, which pose a serious risk to motorists, particularly two-wheeler riders. Bikers said many chamber lids have become loose because of poor-quality cement concrete used to secure them.
