Open manholes -- a persistent threat

FE Team | Published: July 07, 2026 20:34:50

Open manholes on roads in the capital and other cities have become a grave threat to public safety. Every day, pedestrians and commuters risk their lives while travelling to workplaces, markets, or educational institutions. During the rainy season, these manholes become particularly hazardous as accumulated water makes them invisible, leading to frequent accidents. Reports of deaths and injuries caused by such negligence appear in the media far too often. For children and the elderly, the danger is even far greater.
The problem persists mainly due to broken or stolen covers and the failure to repair them promptly. Had the city corporations or concerned authorities ensured regular monitoring, these situations could easily have been prevented. Safeguarding citizens is their responsibility, yet the continued indifference is deeply regrettable.
It is urgent to take immediate and sustainable measures: keeping every manhole securely covered, ensuring regular inspections and preventing theft. Citizens, too, must remain alert and inform the authorities if an open manhole is noticed. Unless swift and effective action is taken, accidents will continue to rise, putting countless lives at risk.
Nusrat Jahan
Jagannath University
shoronikaislam1709@gmail.com