In the small town of Kushalnagar, Karnataka, auto driver Gulzar Beg has become a local hero—not for his driving, but for his work in filling potholes. Over the years, he has repaired over 60,000 potholes on his own, ensuring safer roads for everyone.
A one-man mission to fix roads
Gulzar Beg, now 72 years old, carries a shovel and bucket in his auto. Whenever he sees a pothole while driving passengers, he stops and fills it. His goal is to prevent accidents and make roads safer.
His journey began in 1971 when he started driving a taxi. The terrible road conditions caused him back pain. Frustrated, he approached the local municipality and leaders, but received excuses and false promises. Officials cited a lack of funds for the poor roads.
Gulzar decided to take action in 1974. Since then, he’s been filling potholes wherever he finds them.
Gulzar’s efforts reflect a larger problem across India—poorly maintained roads and a lack of accountability. Many people in the town admire Gulzar’s dedication. Even officials recognize his efforts.
“When I was transferred here, I heard about Gulzar and went to see for myself. Wherever he goes, he fixes potholes. He’s a true hero,” said M. Krishna Prasad, Chief Officer of Kushalnagar Nagar Panchayat.
For Gulzar, seeing people drive smoothly over a road he repaired is the biggest reward. “I don’t complain anymore. I just fix the potholes myself,” he says with a smile.
The issue is not merely one of inconvenience, but rather one of life and death. A Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways report revealed potholes caused 4,446 accidents in 2022, resulting in 1,856 deaths. Uttar Pradesh reported 1,030 fatalities, accounting for over 55% of the national total.
Govt’s response to pothole issues
Recognising the issue’s severity, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari recently criticised contractors for poor maintenance and promised strict action.
He announced plans to introduce new technology to tackle potholes, focusing on “white topping”—a method of adding concrete over asphalt roads. Tested at IIT Bombay, this technology can extend road lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.
Gadkari assured that contractors failing to meet quality standards would be blacklisted and fined. He emphasised that under the defect liability clause, builders must repair potholes on roads under their contracts for five years.
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