Mangaluru: In an unusual but telling incident, four children in Mangaluru have taken the responsibility of filling potholes on the city’s crumbling roads, exposing the glaring negligence of the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) and elected representatives.
The children — identified as Mohammed Ayan, Mohammed Aman, and two of their friends — recently filled a large pothole near Bunts Hostel. Their act has not only attracted public admiration but has also drawn criticism towards officials for ignoring a pressing civic issue that has plagued residents for years.
Roads in deplorable state
Mangaluru’s roads have long been a cause of concern for commuters, with potholes becoming both a nuisance and a danger. Several stretches in the city, including those near Hampankatta Circle, Nanthoor, and Bunts Hostel, are riddled with craters that make daily travel risky for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Accidents due to poor road conditions are reported frequently, yet little has been done to ensure durable repairs. The MCC’s apparent apathy has forced residents to take matters into their own hands on multiple occasions, with auto drivers, police officers, and now even children volunteering to fill potholes.
A civic message from the youth
Speaking after the incident, young Ayan remarked, “It’s unfortunate that the MCC continues to ignore its responsibilities, while auto drivers, police officers, and even children are stepping up to do their job. We have seen many riders lose control and suffer injuries because of these potholes. When accidents happen, no politicians come to help — they simply don’t care. We want them to feel ashamed seeing children like us fixing what they ignore.”
His friend Aman added, “We are just doing our duty by filling the potholes and helping save lives. We even put up a banner that read ‘Mangalore Careless Corporation (MCC)’, which many people found both hilarious and thought-provoking.”
The children have also announced plans to extend their efforts to other accident-prone areas of the city in the coming days.
Public support and criticism of officials
The children’s actions have sparked widespread discussion on social media and among residents. Many lauded the initiative as a brave step that underlines the frustration of ordinary citizens with civic apathy. At the same time, the fact that children felt compelled to perform such tasks has been seen as an indictment of local governance.
Civic activists argue that road maintenance and safety fall squarely within the duties of the MCC and elected representatives. The lack of consistent upkeep, they say, has not only endangered lives but also tarnished the city’s reputation.
A recurring pattern of neglect
This is not the first time Mangaluru residents have filled potholes themselves. In previous years, groups of auto drivers and even police personnel have stepped forward to repair dangerous patches. Each incident reignites public anger over MCC’s failure to act proactively despite repeated complaints.
Observers say the recurring negligence highlights deeper issues in planning, accountability, and use of public funds. With the city aspiring for “smart city” status, the inability to maintain basic infrastructure like roads has become a point of embarrassment.
Conclusion
The sight of children filling potholes on busy roads may appear heartwarming at first, but it is ultimately a reflection of governance failure. While their small act has earned applause from the community, it also raises serious questions about civic responsibility and accountability. Unless the MCC takes immediate and sustained action, Mangaluru risks further damage to both its roads and its public trust.