'Most roads are riddled with potholes, unsafe for travel, why are engineers being paid?' High Court lashes out

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court sharply criticised the inaction of engineers responsible for road maintenance, even as pothole-ridden roads continue to cause accidents and fatalities. Justice Devan Ramachandran warned that the engineers concerned may have to appear in person to explain the situation.

The court observed that most roads in the state are filled with potholes and pose a grave danger to motorists. “We do not see engineers on the roads, even though they are the ones who should inspect and fix these issues. Why are they being paid salaries?” the court asked orally.

The judge further remarked that an engineer’s skill lies in anticipating where potholes are likely to form — not merely in filling them once they appear. Petitions regarding the poor condition of roads will be taken up again on Tuesday.

The court’s observations came in the wake of two separate incidents in Thrissur, where two motorcyclists lost their lives. The government explained that the second accident was caused by skidding during an overtaking attempt and not by a pothole, but the court pointed out that even after the first incident, no action had been taken. The government was directed to provide a detailed explanation by Tuesday.

“Why can’t they open their eyes?”

“It is the blood flowing on the roads and the tears of families left orphaned that compel this court to speak,” Justice Ramachandran said.

The court questioned why officials were unable to open their eyes to this suffering and respond with compassion.

No measures to repair roads

The court also noted that two-wheeler travel had become extremely dangerous. “The government brought in a law mandating helmets, but what is their answer to the deaths and injuries caused by potholes? No steps are being taken to repair the roads. Are they waiting for the death toll to rise further?” the court asked.