Thai residents plant rice on pothole-ridden road to protest neglect

Residents in Wichian Buri district, Phetchabun, have taken an unconventional approach to protest the deplorable state of a main road by planting rice on it. The damaged road, riddled with countless potholes, has caused numerous accidents and has been a persistent source of frustration.

After a local Facebook user highlighted the issue, the post quickly garnered attention and widespread criticism from the community. Comments poured in, expressing anger and dismay at the condition of the Tha Rong-Bueng Krachap road. One user suggested going to the news to publicise the issue.

Following the viral post, reporters visited the Tha Rong-Bueng Krachap road in the Wichian Buri district. This road is a crucial route for residents of the Bueng Krachap subdistrict, used for travelling to markets, government offices, hospitals, and schools. However, the road’s condition has deteriorated to the point where the yellow lines are no longer visible, and deep potholes are scattered over a distance of approximately 5 kilometres.

A local shared their personal experience, revealing that their son had fallen off his motorcycle twice while trying to avoid the holes. They expressed concern that the village might become a forgotten land, with no one wanting to visit due to the perilous road conditions.

A resident of Bueng Krachap, 64 year old Amporn Asanok explained that she had planted rice, cassava, and grass on the road in protest.

“The road has so many water-filled potholes that it’s like a paddy field. Whatever we plant here grows well.”

No man’s land

Another resident, 40 year old Chatchadaporn voiced her frustration, stating that the road is the main route for over ten villages. She lamented that they have been suffering for years, with only temporary and ineffective repairs being made.

She highlighted the frequent accidents involving students and the elderly, emphasising the urgent need for a permanent solution.

“If there’s any leftover budget, please allocate it to help us.”

School transport vehicles, serving around four to five schools, face significant challenges on this road. When the buses hit the potholes, students often bump their heads against onto roof. The residents demand a permanent and standard repair, as they are tired of repeatedly voicing their grievances without any substantial response.

The local government has been accused of neglecting the road, with excuses about budget constraints. Residents are now appealing to higher officials to intervene and address this critical issue. The road’s condition is not just an inconvenience but a severe safety hazard that has been ignored for far too long, reported KhaoSod.