Despite a Nagpur Bench of Bombay High Court ruling that safe roads, free from life-threatening hazards such as open manholes, are a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, several hazardous spots continue to exist across the city ahead of the monsoon, raising questions over the city’s preparedness despite repeated assurances from civic authorities. With weather conditions signalling the onset of monsoon and authorities conducting a series of review meetings and inspections to assess readiness for monsoon-related emergencies, uncovered manholes, damaged covers and open trenches remain visible in prominent parts of the city. The conditions have prompted concerns over commuter safety at a time when civic agencies claim to be prepared to tackle any eventuality during the monsoon. In its landmark judgment delivered in October 2025, the Bombay High Court held that citizens have a right to travel on roads free from hazards such as potholes and open manholes, effectively recognising safe roads as an enforceable constitutional obligation of public authorities.

 

 

he continued existence of such hazards therefore extends beyond routine civic maintenance and enters the realm of public safety and legal accountability. One such example can be seen near the Balbharti building in Civil Lines, where a manhole has been left uncovered. A bamboo pole bearing a black flag has been placed in it to alert commuters. However, the effectiveness of such makeshift warnings remains questionable during heavy rainfall, when waterlogging frequently obscures road surfaces and concealed openings can pose a serious risk to motorists and pedestrians. A similar but potentially more dangerous situation exists in the Ravi Nagar Quarters area. An open manhole there remains uncovered and lacks even basic warning measures.

 

No barricades, flags or cautionary markers have been installed to alert road users, increasing the possibility of accidents once rainwater begins accumulating on roads. Concerns have also been raised over a damaged manhole cover near the Accounts Office in Civil Lines. Although the cover remains in place, visible deterioration has made it vulnerable to collapse under vehicular load. Commuters passing through the area regularly fear that the weakened structure could give way, particularly during periods of heavy traffic.

 

Apart from open and damaged manholes, trenches excavated for various infrastructure projects continue to pose risks. Near Ravi Bhavan, a trench has been cordoned off with warning tape, but the excavated soil remains piled along its edges. In the event of heavy rain, the loose earth could spill onto adjoining roads, creating slippery conditions and increasing the likelihood of accidents. As civic authorities continue to review monsoon preparedness and inspect nullah-cleaning works across the city, the persistence of open manholes, damaged covers and exposed trenches presents a stark contrast to official claims of readiness.