`Potholeasana’: How Hyderabad techie launched a campaign to wake up GHMC to ensure-pothole-free roads

Hyderabad: Potholes have long been hidden culprits behind sudden jolts, aching ribs, and interrupted commutes in Miyapur. For many, the arrival of monsoon means not just rain, but the treacherous craters lurking beneath the waterlogged streets.

Every year before the monsoons arrive, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) undertakes repairs before the rains, clearing and patching up road damage to ensure safer travel. This year, however, the potholes seemed to multiply unchecked. Despite repeated appeals from citizens, GHMC’s response remained largely muted.

Frustrated by the inaction, Hyderabad-based IT employee and activist Vinay Vangala decided to make a change.

“I’ve been fighting for safe roads since 2014. Every year, I file complaints, call helplines, write to corporators—but I’m met with either empty promises or silence. Even doctors advised me to stop driving after injuries from hitting potholes. That’s when I realised quiet protests were failing me. So I started the ‘potholeasana’ campaign—a peaceful pose of steady intent to symbolise our demand for safer roads,” said Vinay.

On Sunday, Vinay performed a “potholeasana” in a Miyapur colony, recorded the act, and tagged GHMC online. The results were immediate—within hours, repair crews arrived and fixed the pothole. Encouraged by this quick response, Vinay and his group of friends decided to take the campaign further, staging similar protests in other parts of the city.

According to reports, as of early August 2025, GHMC has repaired around 7,250 potholes. Yet many residents say inner roads remain neglected, fuelling commuter frustration. GHMC had earlier identified 5,780 potholes and launched restoration work on July 1 as part of a 100-day drive. However, despite temporary fixes, periodic road-restoration efforts, and promises of permanent repairs, the backlog remains immense.

For commuters, the daily challenge continues, navigating roads marred by broken tarmac, sudden jolts, and traffic slowdowns during peak hours.

“Across the city, the struggle goes on. But through potholeasana, our message is clear—this asana helps us stay focused, reflects our seriousness, and raises awareness. We will continue the campaign in many more areas until the authorities give us better roads,” Vinay asserted.