News Flash Daily
02 March 
Public Works Department cautions citizens in Shivamogga district, says bonfires on asphalt roads cause severe structural damage and waste public funds
Shivamogga: In view of the upcoming Holi celebrations, the Public Works Department (PWD) has issued a public advisory urging people not to conduct Holika Dahan on asphalt (tar) roads. The appeal was made by Parashuram, Assistant Engineer with the PWD in Sagar, highlighting the long-term damage caused to road infrastructure due to bonfires lit directly on tar surfaces.
PWD Flags Serious Damage to Road Infrastructure
According to the PWD official, lighting bonfires on asphalt roads during Holika Dahan leads to intense heat exposure, causing the tar to melt. This weakens the road surface, results in the formation of potholes, and significantly reduces the overall lifespan of the road.
Such damage, he pointed out, not only causes inconvenience to daily commuters but also poses safety risks to motorists and pedestrians.
Public Funds Spent on Avoidable Repairs
The Assistant Engineer further stated that repairing roads damaged by bonfires places an unnecessary financial burden on the government, as public funds are required to restore infrastructure that could otherwise have lasted much longer.
“Performing Holika Dahan on asphalt roads leads to avoidable damage. Repairing such roads requires additional public expenditure, which can be prevented with public cooperation,” Parashuram said.
Appeal for Responsible Celebration
Parashuram urged citizens to celebrate Holi responsibly by conducting Holika Dahan only in designated open grounds or safe locations away from roads. He emphasised that safeguarding public infrastructure is a shared responsibility and called upon residents to support the department’s efforts to maintain road quality.
Collective Responsibility for Public Safety
The PWD reiterated that roads are vital public assets meant for smooth and safe transportation. Preventing damage during festivals will help ensure better road conditions and reduce accident risks in the future.
