Team Herald
PONDA: Travelling along the one-kilometre stretch of the Bethora Industrial Estate road has become an ordeal for commuters, as they are forced to endure severe dust pollution and navigate pothole-ridden terrain.
Local resident Naresh Naik, who regularly travels through the area said, “It’s a nightmare. Suddenly, visibility is completely lost when heavy vehicles pass through the fine gravel powder spread on the road to repair potholes. Dust clouds form instantly, making it hazardous for everyone.”
He added that the roads have been dug up for various development works over the past six to eight months but remain unrestored.
Naik pointed out that even during major festivals, such as Ganesh Chaturthi and now Diwali, residents continue to face immense inconvenience. “Travelling on this road is challenging for both commuters and pedestrians,” he said.
The one-kilometre stretch of Bethora’s main road, located in the Shiroda constituency, extends from the main road junction to the village. It is in a deplorable condition, riddled with craters and potholes, making journeys uncomfortable and risky. This road is a critical link, not just for the village but also for Bethora Industrial Estate. However, it is severely damaged, with one lane entirely unusable. Commuters are forced to use the remaining portion of the road that is still in relatively good condition.
Another local, Vishal Naik, highlighted an additional issue that is absence of a proper drainage system. “There is no gutter system on either side of the road, so rainwater flows directly onto the surface. This has worsened the road’s condition,” he explained.
Residents are calling for immediate action to restore the road and alleviate the ongoing difficulties faced by commuters and pedestrians alike.