M. Maheshwar Rao, Chief Commissioner of Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), on Monday instructed officials and contractors to expedite pothole filling and complete ongoing road works across its limits, which cover 1,648 km of major roads.The commissioner highlighted that 61 roads, covering 104 km, have been white-topped between 2016 and 2024. A fresh white-topping project is now underway on 82 roads spanning 143 km, costing ₹1,700 crore.Contractors have been directed to ensure public safety during these works, particularly in places where ducts are being laid, side drains and underground drainage systems are being developed, and where Cauvery water pipelines are being relocated, by installing barricades, using caution tape, and removing debris promptly.In addition, blacktopping of 182 roads covering 349 km is in progress at a cost of ₹694 crore, with a deadline of November 2025. Rao instructed officials to ensure proper grading to prevent water stagnation on newly laid roads.The commissioner reminded contractors that 178 roads, totalling 401 km, are still under the Defect Liability Period (DLP). They are required to repair potholes and surface damage within deadlines, failing which the GBA will undertake repairs and deduct the cost. Of the 188 roads that have completed their DLP, 62 are in poor condition and will be taken up for immediate repairs.To strengthen accountability, officials were told to enforce annual maintenance contracts and monitor the cleanliness of footpaths, shoulder drains, and slabs.Mr. Rao also called for speedy completion of works on 11 high-density corridors (46 km) and directed Metro authorities to clear debris near construction sites. A new centralised software system will track road projects, contractors, and pothole data for better coordination.Published - September 15, 2025 09:55 pm IST