COIMBATORE: The roads across Coimbatore city paint a grim picture, with citizens and motorists left to bear the brunt of poor planning, shoddy execution, and the apathy of civic authorities.
From main thoroughfares to inner lanes, damaged stretches have become a daily obstacle course for residents, raising questions about the effectiveness of the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC) and the state government's oversight.
Despite Chief Minister MK Stalin's allocation of Rs 200 crore exclusively for road repair and development in Coimbatore, there is little to no improvement. The recent spell of rain only worsened the conditions, turning broken roads into dangerous, muddy stretches unfit even for walking.
"It is a nightmare driving on these roads. I end up at the mechanic almost every month due to damage caused by potholes. Will the civic body bear these expenses," asked G Balamurugan, a two-wheeler rider from Vellakinar. "Even arterial roads like Tiruchy Road and Mettupalayam Road are riddled with potholes and uneven surfaces. Where did the funds go," he added.
The simultaneous execution of multiple infrastructure projects, including underground drainage (UGD) works, 24x7 water supply, and stormwater drain works has left roads dug up and unattended for years. Instead of being phased sensibly, all these projects were taken up across various zones at once, resulting in widespread disarray. The issue of bad roads is not new to Coimbatore, but the scale of degradation has worsened in recent years, Balamurugan added.
"Why would any civic body launch all major works at the same time without proper coordination or a restoration plan? This is sheer irresponsibility," said R Uma Devi, a resident of Sukrawarpettai. "The CCMC's approach lacks accountability and transparency. The public has been paying the price."
Residents point out that once roads are dug up for pipeline or drainage works, they remain unrepaired for months or even years. Temporary patches laid have also not lasted due to poor workmanship.
"Why should the people of Coimbatore pay hiked taxes or even any tax for that matter when the CCMC cannot give proper roads or pathways? Roads are in the worst condition for years, causing health issues. While our vehicles are damaged and we are burdened financially, the civic body is least bothered," said S Vivin Saravan, a social activist from Gandhi Park.
Roads in Kavundampalayam, Vadavalli, Sukrawarpettai, Gandhima Nagar, Vellakinar, Saravanampatti, KNG Pudur, Thudiyalur, Ukkadam, Peelamedu, Ganapathy, Chinnavedampatti, Vilankurichi, Kuniyamuthur, and various other areas have turned disastrous and remain unrepaired.
Despite TNIE's efforts, CCMC Commissioner M Sivaguru Prabakaran was not available for a comment.