West Bengal: Citizens plant saplings in potholes, shame administration

Pothole menace has claimed many lives across India owing to indifferent administration . People have staged unique protests to draw attention to the threat that commuters face daily. From turning Pothole site into colourful protest site involving mermaids, crocodiles and various mythic creatures to plantation, citizens of India are trying everything to awaken consciousness.

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In West Bengal's Siliguri, the road leading from champasari's Narmada Bangan to Milan More, witnessed a unique protest when natives gathered around the potholes, agitated that their repeated demand for repair work has not been pain any heed by administration, and decided to plant saplings in the middle of the potholes to draw attention to the crises. They also staged a massive protest by blocking the road with banners and raised slogans against the current government in West Bengal for failing to ensure safety on roads. They were heard saying how deplorable is the condition of the road and is prone to accidents.

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As soon as the word spread about the creative protest, the police from nearby police station Pradhan Nagar, reached the spot to disperse the people. The protesters remained unbridled, continued with their protest and even vowed to stage even a bigger demonstration if the roads are not repaired anytime soon. Below are the pictures:

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Potholes in India have claimed a whopping 11, 386 lives (approx) all over the country in the past four years. This number translates to roughly seven deaths, each day, across the country. This data was compiled by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of deaths due to potholes at 3,428, closely followed by Maharashtra at 1,410 deaths, followed by Madhya Pradesh (1,244)  West Bengal (783), Bihar (659), Gujarat (597), Andhra Pradesh (497), Tamil Nadu (481) and Punjab (367). The actual numbers might be far grimmer as many cases often go unreported Recently, Artist Nanjundaswamy posted a satirical video on the Bengaluru pothole menace to increase awareness and remind the Bengaluru municipal corporation about the promises made for years now to eradicate the pothole hazard. The video showcased an individual dressed up as an astronaut, fake moonwalking, around the streets of Bengaluru’s Heriohalli.

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