Mangaluru: A Mangalurean took mayor Kavitha Sanil to task for not filling potholes on city roads during the phone-in programme on Friday. “Why are potholes in the city not being filled even after several accidents? Do you ride a two-wheeler? Do you have the experience of riding a two-wheeler on the Balmatta – Bendorewell road? You visit the place and check,” the woman caller told the mayor over phone.

The caller told Sanil that she recently met with an accident while negotiating a pothole on the stretch. “Both me and my mother sustained injuries. You don’t understand the plight of the people,” the caller said and demanded that the city corporation take responsibility.

Though the mayor tried to pacify her stating that pothole filling has not been taken up due to rains, the caller was in no mood to buy the argument. “When the National Highway Authority of India can take up road repair works during during rainy season, why can’t MCC do so?.” she asked. The mayor put an end to the conversation stating that allt he potholes will be filled soon.

Meanwhile, another citizen drew the attention of the mayor towards unscientific laying of underground drainage (UGD) and drinking water pipelines side by side at Surathkal, Alape and Padil which could lead to contamination of water.

Sanil said Rs 54 crore has been reserved for the UGD works in the city. The works of UGD at Alape and Padil will be taken up ADB Phase II. Tenders will be invited in November. To a complaint regarding irregular drinking water supply meter reading by the city corporation, the mayor said action will be initiated to set right the delay.

A caller, who introduced himself as an employee of BSNL, complained that the city corporation workers have been damaging BSNL cables while digging roads for development and repair works. Irked over the complaint, the mayor said the BSNL too do not inform the city corporation while digging the roads for their works. She told the complainant to visit the city corporation and speak to officials concerned.