Telangana youth stages unique protest on mid-road over potholes, watch

Road safety has been a critical concern in India, with the government imposing strict fines on commuters for violating traffic rules. From hefty penalties for not wearing helmets and seatbelts to fines for overspeeding and rash driving, citizens are constantly reminded of their duty to follow the law. However, the question arises- are the roads themselves safe enough for commuters who abide by these rules?

Recently, a video went viral on social media, sparking debate on pothole-ridden roads and the fines imposed on citizens.

The Viral Protest Video

In the now-viral video, a youth is seen staging a unique protest by sitting cross-legged on a busy pothole-filled road while wearing his helmet. His scooter is parked beside him, and the potholes around him are brimming with rainwater. Vehicles struggle to maneuver around as he silently highlights the sorry state of the stretch.

He holds a placard in Telugu addressing the Municipal Commissioner and Collector. The message reads, “No matter what I wear on the road, I’m paying fines for everything. But the roads themselves are not in good condition… how much will you penalize me? —An Indian citizen, Kotu Shyam Kumar.” (sic)

The protest has struck a chord with netizens, sparking widespread conversations about accountability and civic responsibility.

Telangana youth stages unique protest on mid-road over potholes, watch

While the origin of the video could not be independently verified, it is being claimed that the incident took place in Telangana’s Karimnagar. The clip was shared on X by Public Voice Warangal.

A man sat on the road stating:
Respected Commissioner of Police &District Collector,
You are fining us for everything – even if I don’t wear something properly while on the road
But the roads themselves are not in proper condition.
So how much fine will you impose on me for that? pic.twitter.com/k1SMgAqvrw

— Public_Voice_Warangal (@Voice_WGL) September 3, 2025

Potholes: A Growing Menace

India’s road infrastructure has often come under criticism for poor maintenance. Potholes, formed during monsoons or due to weak construction, have become silent killers on highways and city streets. Reports suggest that hundreds of lives are lost annually in pothole-related accidents, making them as dangerous as reckless driving.