Due to the recent rains, a considerable number of large and small potholes have appeared on the national highway, causing considerable inconvenience to travellers. Many minor accidents have occurred due to the vehicles having to swerve to avoid these suddenly appearing potholes. The Indian National Congress Party recently held a protest rally to raise awareness about the poor road conditions.
Desai held a meeting with NHAI officials in Satara on Monday and warned them of possible legal action against officials and contractors if they did not repair the roads before the deadline.
“If the potholes are not repaired by August 15, we will take legal action against those responsible. It is crucial to repair the road damage immediately to prevent accidents. Moreover, the poor road conditions are leading to economic losses. I have instructed the NHAI officials to meet representatives of transport associations separately and address their concerns,” Desai said.
Desai also mentioned that he had instructed the state government’s public works department to immediately repair the state roads damaged by the rains.
Recently, Congress party members staged demonstrations at five toll plazas along the Pune-Kolhapur stretch of NH 48 and allowed vehicles to pass without paying toll. Congress leaders demanded immediate road repairs and proposed waiving toll until the roads are repaired. The protest ended after NHAI officials guaranteed an immediate 25 percent concession and committed to a further 25 percent concession after consultation with the Roads and Highways Ministry.
