Poor drainage infrastructure, incomplete road works and inadequate rainwater management are emerging as key reasons behind the recurring pothole problem across Bengaluru, according to field inspections conducted on several road stretches in the city.
Experts and civic observers say authorities have largely focused on resurfacing roads while neglecting shoulder drains and rainwater outlets, resulting in roads deteriorating soon after being repaired.
Roads resurfaced, drainage ignored
One such example is the service road along the Outer Ring Road in Kasturinagar, where the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) carried out asphalting work around four months ago. However, drainage infrastructure was reportedly left incomplete.
While one side of the road lacks a drain altogether, the existing drain on the opposite side is damaged. As a result, rainwater accumulates on the stretch, leading to the formation of large potholes. The condition has reportedly become so poor that BMTC buses have stopped using the service road.
Similar concerns have been raised on roads undergoing “comprehensive development” works, including Nimhans Road, Cantonment Road, Hesaraghatta Road, Haralur Road and Laggere Road, where resurfacing has been completed but adequate rainwater outlets remain absent.
Experts call for long-term solutions
Urban planners argue that potholes cannot be eliminated unless drainage systems are addressed alongside road construction. According to urban planning expert George K Kuruvilla, rainwater outlets should ideally be provided every 30 feet to prevent water accumulation and damage to asphalt surfaces.
He pointed out that roads in technology parks and airport zones remain largely pothole-free because both roads and drainage systems are designed and maintained together.
Retired engineers have also highlighted that while drainage works are often included in project estimates, they are not always executed fully on the ground.
Minister flags recurring problem
During his first review meeting, Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda reportedly expressed concern over the city’s recurring pothole problem, noting that repeated repairs continue to consume public funds without addressing the underlying causes.
Experts believe that unless drainage infrastructure becomes an integral part of road development projects, Bengaluru may continue to face the costly cycle of pothole repairs every monsoon season.