BHOPAL: Once regarded as one of Bhopal’s most serene and well-planned residential areas, the localities surrounding Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) have been severely affected by civic woes and monsoon.Rainfall has damaged internal roads across the township, leaving residents and commuters to navigate deep potholes, muddy stretches and waterlogged patches on a daily basis.Known for its wide, tree-lined avenues, organised housing sectors and peaceful surroundings, the BHEL township was once considered a model residential zone.However, the condition of its roads has sharply deteriorated in recent months. Residents say that almost no road in the sprawling area remains free from damage.Several stretches now resemble rows of craters, with some potholes deep enough to trap the wheels of two-wheelers.After every spell of rain, the damaged portions turn into muddy pits, making it difficult for motorists to identify the depth of the potholes and increasing the risk of accidents.“Driving here has become a circus act. You avoid one pothole only to land in another. I am afraid of what will happen if the rains continue,” said local resident Mohit Upadhyay.The poor road condition has reportedly led to several accidents over the past year. Two-wheeler riders remain particularly vulnerable, with residents claiming that skids and falls have become frequent.Many commuters are forced to slow down abruptly or move onto the wrong side of the road to avoid large craters, creating additional risks for other road users.Residents also claim that the damaged roads have begun affecting the area’s reputation. Friends and relatives are reportedly reluctant to visit homes in this part of the capital because of the difficult approach roads.
Roads in ruins
Some homeowners have even expressed regret over purchasing property in the area, while a few are considering shifting elsewhere.The situation is particularly severe in Indrapuri area, a prominent residential colony around BHEL area. A 1.5-kilometre stretch has reportedly developed what commuters describe as “one crater every 10 metres.”The repeated impact of potholes has damaged vehicle suspensions, while breakdowns have become increasingly common.“Vehicle maintenance has become a regular expense. The roads are damaging suspensions and tyres, and travelling even short distances has become exhausting,” said a commuter from Awadhpuri.Bhopal Municipal Corporation and Public Works Department have announced plans to undertake patchwork and resurfacing on priority roads, officials said.However, residents say the response has been slow and inadequate.Temporary filling with gravel or loose construction material has provided only short-term relief, with potholes reappearing after the next spell of rain.“The roads have been damaged for more than two months. Several people have been injured, yet the problem persists,” said Amit Nema, who lives near one of the worst-affected stretches.Residents have urged civic agencies and elected representatives to move beyond temporary repairs.They are demanding proper drainage planning, durable re-carpeting, regular inspections and timely maintenance. With monsoon activity continuing, the damaged roads have turned BHEL’s once-scenic locality into a daily test of patience.Residents say only sustained repair work—not temporary patching—can restore the area’s lost charm and ensure safer travel.
