HYDERABAD:
A majority of roads in the second largest urban centre of Sindh have fallen into a state of disrepair, with potholes, overflowing sewage and dust pollution not only disrupting daily life but also contributing to a sharp rise in joint and respiratory ailments among citizens.
The poor condition of roads is also resulting in frequent vehicle breakdowns, placing an additional financial burden on the public, which is already reeling under the impact of inflation and high cost of living.
According to information gathered by The Express Tribune from various areas, more than half of the city’s roads have deteriorated due to the alleged negligence of the provincial government and the indifference shown by the district administration and elected local representatives.
Key arteries such as the main road from Latifabad Unit No 5 to Unit No 10 (from Hazrat Bilal Chowk to Milad-un-Nabi Chowk), and onwards to Sargent Hotel, are in a highly dilapidated state. Mehboob Grand Road has completely broken down, while similar conditions are reported from several parts of Latifabad Units No 11, 12, 7, and 2.
Other affected stretches include the road from Liaquat Colony to Noor Mahal Cinema, Goods Naka, Public School Road, Road No. 8, and the Airport Road from Khuda Hafiz Board Chari to Kohsar. In several areas, stagnant sewage water is a common sight, further damaging the already battered roads and giving rise to deep potholes.
Locals said the road from the Unit No 7 flyover towards Chungi Naka has been dug up by unidentified persons and now resembles a crater-filled track. Meanwhile, the road from the same flyover towards the city and cantonment areas is sinking due to the pressure of heavy traffic, making accidents a daily occurrence. Numerous open manholes further add to the danger for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Hundreds of thousands of vehicles pass through these broken roads on a daily basis. The resulting dust and constant jolts are reportedly leading to a surge in health issues. Doctors say a growing number of patients, including youth and elderly, are seeking treatment for joint pain and respiratory complications caused by long exposure to bumpy rides and polluted air.
“The jerks from broken roads are damaging people’s spines and joints, while dust is causing breathing difficulties,” a general physician at a local clinic told The Express Tribune.
Residents also complain of rising vehicle maintenance costs. “Vehicles fall into manholes, get stuck in ditches, or suffer suspension damage. We are constantly visiting mechanics,” said a motorist from Unit No 11. “We pay taxes on everything – fuel, vehicles, even tyres – but get no facilities in return.” Adding to public frustration is the use of interlocking blocks, meant for walking tracks, on major roads under the guise of development. These blocks, locals say, are of poor quality and sink quickly under the weight of traffic, further damaging the roads and wasting public funds.
