Issue and Opponent: In Andhra Pradesh, in the village of Komarada Mandal, potholes have been left unattended by the local and regional government. Specifically, the interstate road near the village has been the source of major upset and frustration. The potholes collect water and pose a risk to the health and safety of several residents and commuters. During the rainy season, these potholes fill almost completely with rainwater. It is a widely held belief that the local and regional government of India should fix these potholes to protect and ensure the safety of these residents and commuters, as the interstate road connects to that national highway near Autonar.
Dilemma Action: In an attempt to call attention to the issue, the Communist Party of India staged a protest by fishing in the potholes accumulated with water. Some activists even attempted to swim in the potholes. This action criticized the state and union governments for the “deplorable” conditions of the road. Some residents have even gone as far as to claim that the road is completely damaged. This road is used to transport goods and services to a total of five Indian states. The road and the potholes are so bad that heavy vehicles have been overturned or stranded in mud-filled roads which cause traffic jams for hours. By fishing and swimming in these potholes, the activists call attention to the issue while using elements of laughtivism.
Outcome: The local government, after being ridiculed by the activists, quickly covered the potholes with stone chips. Though it is only a temporary relief that will contribute to a smoother flow of traffic, it is more attention and resources to other similar issues in India.