HYDERABAD: Less than 12 hours after a photo went viral showing two barefoot men striking yoga poses inside a pothole on Zenas International School Road in Hafeezpet, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) filled the long-neglected crater.
Dubbed “Pothole Asana”, the protest drew widespread attention and reignited criticism over the civic body’s delayed road repairs. The image — showing two citizens in the tree pose inside the pothole — was a satirical jab at the six-month delay in fixing the hazard, despite multiple GHMC inspections.
“It shouldn’t take viral memes to fix roads,” said Vinay Vangala, a social activist and regular commuter. “But we’re relieved it’s finally repaired. Let’s see if the corporation takes up similar work across the colony.”
Hyderabad residents have used creative protests before — from planting saplings in potholes to floating paper boats in waterlogged lanes to call out civic apathy. While welcoming the swift response this time, locals say long-term planning and accountability are essential.
“We’ve prioritised main roads and high-traffic routes for now,” said Sridevi, assistant executive engineer, GHMC. “Work in key areas like Madhapur, Miyapur and Jubilee Hills will also begin soon.”