On the Balijuri–Bhatara stretch in Madarganj, a road spanning roughly 18 kilometers shared by Balijuri and Sarishabari Upazilas, the asphalt has crumbled in many places, leaving behind deep craters and potholes. Even a light drizzle turns these defects into water-filled traps. Buses, trucks, and other vehicles navigate this route at considerable risk. The situation is causing immense hardship for transport owners, staff, passengers, and the lakhs of locals dependent on this connection. Walking along the road has become a struggle.
A field visit reveals that most of the affected 18-kilometer stretch, particularly the section from the Jonail Bazar bridge to the Polisha intersection in Adarvita Union, is riddled with large potholes. In these areas, four markets sit about 1.5 feet above the road. Due to the lack of drainage, rainfall accumulates on the road surface.
Moreover, thousands of homes lining both sides of the road channel water onto the roadway, eroding the asphalt and creating small and large craters. With the asphalt washed away and potholes expanding, significant waterlogging has become commonplace- inflicting continuous hardship upon the public.
Bus driver Solaiman Mia states that despite the emergence of large potholes in many locations, no repairs have been made. Drivers constantly face danger, especially when rainwaters submerge the potholes. He warns that many accidents, including vehicle rollovers, have occurred, yet the road remains unrepaired. He urgently calls for repairs.
Van driver Nasir Akand from Aigenipara, Gunaritala Union, says he travels this route daily and must maneuver cautiously with passengers and heavy goods due to the perilous potholes.
Residents from Siddhuli and Gunaritala Unions- Bached Mia, Rahim Mia, Haidar Ali, Roich Mia, and Shafiqul Mia- report hundreds of potholes weaving the roadway. They say rainwater fills the craters, frequently causing accidents. Heavy vehicles travel unsteadily; many tip over after their wheels get stuck, nearly breaking down.
Jonail High School student Siam explains that during the rainy season, the road deteriorates further, transforming into piles of muddy water. Students’ clothes and books often get ruined while crossing.
Small businessman Omar Faruk describes commuting this road as exceedingly difficult—rains make it nearly impassable. Drivers can't discern potholes covered in rainwater, leading to overturned buses, trucks, rikshaw-vans, and heavy-goods carriers.
According to Upazila Engineer Golam Kibria Tamal of LGED, a proposal for road repairs has already been submitted to the head office. They are now awaiting approval; once received, repair work will commence.
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