Mumbai: Potholes claim Biker's life in Powai; BMC to held responsible?

Potholes on Mumbai's roads are proving life-threatening for motorists. A two-wheeler rider died in a pothole accident on the Jogeshwari Link Road (JVLR) in Powai on Saturday, July 26. The name of the bike rider who died in the accident has been identified as Lalu Kamble (59). He lost his balance due to a water-filled pothole and was hit by a dumper coming from behind and died.

Lalu Kamble (59), who lived in the Mahakali Caves area of Andheri, was travelling towards Vikhroli on his two-wheeler (MH-02 GG 5436) on the Jogeshwari-Vikhroli road in Powai on Saturday afternoon.  

At around 2:15 pm, his bike skidded off a pothole near the NTPC signal. At the same time, a dumper coming from behind hit him. Kamble suffered serious head injuries in the accident. He was admitted to Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar for treatment, where he died during treatment.

After the accident, police on patrol detained dumper driver Sajid Sheikh (25). Cases have been registered against him at Powai police station under various sections of the Indian Penal Code for speeding and causing death by negligent driving. He lives in Shivaji Nagar, Govandi. 

There are two large potholes on the road where the accident occurred. Kamble's bike fell into a ditch. The ditch was narrow, so he slowed down and was hit by a dumper coming from behind, Powai police said. Lalu Kamble is survived by his wife, two children and a grandchild.

This death is due to potholes, family alleges
There is intense anger being expressed over the accidental death of Lalu Kamble. Sachin Kamble (32), son of the late Lalu Kamble, has alleged that his father died due to potholes and the BMC is responsible for this accident. He demanded strict action against those involved. 

Social activist Rajan Maknikar also said that potholes are becoming life-threatening. He also said that an ambulance was not available quickly after the accident.

Potholes on Mumbai's roads are dangerous

During the monsoon, heavy and continuous rains quickly deteriorate the road surface. Due to inadequate drainage systems, water accumulates on the roads and the potholes deepen.

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Apart from this, substandard materials are used by contractors. Repairs done before the monsoon are temporary. Potholes are formed immediately due to improper application of cement or asphalt layer. Potholes cause bikers to lose control and fall onto the road. Sudden braking can cause the vehicle behind to hit them hard, leading to fatal accidents. Potholes cause many accidents every year. In some cases, they even result in death.