Nagpur: Residents of Dabha have an earnest prayer to Vignaharta: “Bappa, free us of these potholes”. The sentiment is echoing through the locality as residents say navigating roads has become a daily ordeal. On the other hand, Nagpur Municipal Corporation claims to have repaired pothole-ridden roads across the city.In Dabha, residents said potholes are troubling motorists as well as pedestrians. The Sitabuldi-Dabha route on which NMC buses ply is in a pitiable condition, compelling passengers including office-goers, schoolchildren and college students to endure a bumpy ride. Residents alleged that the condition of internal roads is equally distressing.“The Sitabuldi-Dabha route has become a nightmare for motorists and passengers. Despite NMC buses plying on this stretch, the road condition remains poor,” said Prashant Damdikar, a local resident.The problem worsens during rain when water-filled potholes are difficult to spot. “Two-wheeler riders face the risk of skidding and falling. The civic body must act before someone gets seriously injured,” said another resident, Pawan Paraspagar.Residents said the danger amplifies especially during peak traffic hours. “Residents, especially elderly people and patients, face difficulties while stepping out of their homes. NMC should ensure proper roads and drainage in the locality,” said Ravi Udhare.The stretch of road from Amravati Road to Dabha Chowk along Vayusena Nagar is also in a poor condition. “Even recently constructed cement roads have developed cracks. Rainwater accumulates on these stretches, making commuting difficult,” said Ashok Thorat, a resident.Residents pointed out that good roads for walking are not a luxury but a basic right. “The civic administration must stop making tall claims and start addressing the problems on the ground,” they said and demanded immediate repairs of potholes, proper restoration of cracked cement roads and effective drainage to prevent water accumulation.The ongoing festive period has increased movement of devotees. “If repairs are not carried out immediately, the damaged stretches could become accident hotspots,” said Vidya Chaurpagar.
