In Bhagalpur, a peculiar event unfolded when a BJP MLA, finding himself ensnared in a traffic jam, opted to accept a lift on a motorcycle. The MLA then proceeded to ride on the motorcycle with two other individuals, without wearing a helmet. The road they traveled on was in a degraded state, marked by numerous potholes. The motorcycle operator, who offered the MLA a ride, utilized the chance to question him regarding the poor condition of the road. Subsequently, the MLA was not only stuck in the jam but was also faced with inquiries concerning the road conditions.
A sentiment often expressed in Bihar politics is: ‘Focus on politics, not the roads!’ This seemed to be illustrated by Pawan Yadav, the BJP MLA from Kahalgaon. In Bhagalpur’s NH 80, especially around Lailakh, the road’s condition is typified by an abundance of potholes rather than a smooth surface, as erosion from the Ganges River continuously undermines the infrastructure. Despite ongoing repairs, the pace of the work doesn’t seem to reflect the vigor displayed in electoral promises.
BJP MLA Pawan Yadav from Bhagalpur’s Kahalgaon experienced an unusual situation. The MLA, whose electoral promise revolved around enhancing the very road he was now stuck on, found himself trapped in a traffic standstill on that same, problematic road. The MLA had to go to court. So, he flagged down a motorcycle and asked for a lift. There were already two people on the bike. MLA Pawan Yadav joined them, exceeding the usual passenger capacity. Without wearing a helmet, the MLA rode on the motorcycle, which led to a moment that likely caused the MLA to reflect.
A video was recorded by the individual in the middle of the motorcycle, and the rider questioned the MLA about the poor condition of the road. The rider asked, ‘MLA ji, even with the support of a double-engine government, why has the road not been constructed?’ The rider added that the MLA had an urgent court commitment, and they were experiencing delays due to the traffic. In response, MLA Pawan Yadav attributed the issue to the contractor. However, no official source has verified the video’s accuracy.
MLA Pawan Yadav, addressing the question, stated, ‘For two years, we have been instructing the contractor to prioritize the construction of bridges and culverts, while also expediting road repairs. Had he complied, we would not be facing this problem today.’ The video of MLA Pawan Yadav is rapidly circulating. This event unfolded on NH 80, which connects Bhagalpur with Kahalgaon and Jharkhand. Construction is underway on this road, yet the progress is slow, resulting in frequent traffic congestion and causing significant inconvenience for travelers. Traffic jams can extend up to 30 kilometers, causing significant delays.