Mangaluru Residents Threaten Election Boycott Over Pothole Ridden Road

Mangaluru (Fikrokhabar News): Despite repeated claims of development under the Smart City project, residents of Shivabagh in Mangaluru are struggling with a badly damaged road that has become a major source of inconvenience and concern.

The road, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC), is riddled with potholes. Incomplete footpaths and sewage water flowing onto the road have further worsened conditions for pedestrians and motorists.

Frustrated by what they describe as years of neglect by civic authorities and elected representatives, residents have put up a sarcastic banner along the roadside. It reads, “Drive slowly. These potholes are a reminder for those who come seeking votes.”

The banner reflects the growing anger among residents over the failure to provide basic civic amenities.

The road connects important localities, including Pumpwell, Bendoor and Kadri Shivabagh. It also serves as an important route to the Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Hospital.

With potholes spread across the road, commuting has become particularly dangerous for two wheeler riders, raising concerns about the risk of accidents.

Local resident Ashwini Bhat warned that residents would boycott the upcoming elections if the authorities failed to repair the road immediately.

Another resident, Arun, said the area had seen little to no basic infrastructure development over the past several years. He added that despite paying substantial taxes to the civic body, residents continued to face problems with drinking water, drainage maintenance and road conditions.

Residents have urged the Mangaluru City Corporation and senior officials to take immediate action to repair the road, complete the drainage work and provide civic infrastructure that meets the standards promised under the Smart City initiative.

They have made it clear that they expect concrete action rather than assurances from the authorities.