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THE worsening condition of roads in the Tuaran Bypass, Jalan Politeknik, KKIP and surrounding areas has become a growing concern for road users. 

Despite frequent repair works, the overall road condition shows little sign of lasting improvement. 

What motorists continue to experience are temporary fixes that fail to withstand even mild weather conditions.

In many instances, potholes that have been patched last only a few hours. After rainfall, the patches often disintegrate, leaving the road surface damaged once again. 

This recurring problem raises serious questions about the quality of materials used and the repair methods employed by contractors. 

Failure to adhere to proper repair procedures has resulted in the same issues resurfacing repeatedly, with no long-term solution in sight.

The situation is further aggravated by the timing of repair works, which are frequently conducted during peak traffic hours. 

This period coincides with high traffic movement, particularly in school zones and industrial areas such as the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP). 

As a result, traffic congestion intensifies, causing delays and frustration for thousands of daily commuters who rely on these routes.

From the perspective of travel time, pothole-ridden roads force drivers to slow down, change lanes abruptly or come to a complete stop to avoid vehicle damage. 

These disruptions interfere with traffic flow and significantly increase journey times, especially during peak hours. Consequently, road users struggle to reach workplaces, schools and appointments on time, affecting daily productivity and routines.

Safety remains one of the most pressing concerns. Potholes pose a serious risk to motorists, particularly motorcyclists and drivers of smaller vehicles. 

Potholes filled with rainwater are difficult to detect and can cause drivers to lose control, leading to accidents and injuries. 

Sudden braking and evasive manoeuvres to avoid damaged road surfaces further heighten the risk of collisions.

Beyond safety, the economic impact on road users is substantial. Damage to tyres, suspension systems and other vehicle components results in higher maintenance and repair costs. 

Longer travel times also contribute to increased fuel consumption, reduced productivity and higher operating costs, especially for workers, small businesses and logistics operators who depend on efficient road networks.

In addition, potholes effectively reduce usable road space. When certain sections of the road become unsafe, motorists instinctively avoid them, creating unofficial lane reductions. 

This leads to bottlenecks where vehicles are forced into fewer lanes, worsening congestion. The impact becomes even more severe when repair works are carried out during peak hours without proper traffic management.

In conclusion, the pothole problem in Tuaran and Sepanggar is not merely an issue of comfort, but one that affects road safety, economic well-being and overall quality of life.

Road maintenance should not be reactive or temporary in nature. Instead, it must be systematic, adhere to established standards, use quality materials and be scheduled at appropriate times. 

Only through a more comprehensive and sustainable approach can the long-standing pothole problem be effectively resolved for the benefit of all road users.

Anbukkarasu Paramasivam, CMILT

Senior Lecturers, Commerce Department Logistics and Supply Chain Management Polytechnic, KK

The views expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express. If you have something to share, write to us at: Forum@dailyexpress.com.my