Srinagar, Aug. 1 -- India, the world's fastest-growing major economy, has made remarkable strides in various sectors - yet the question persists: why are our roads still so terrible? Despite ambitious infrastructure programs and ever-increasing budgetary allocations, the quality of roads - especially in urban peripheries, rural interiors, and even national highways - remains questionable. Potholes, cracks, uneven layers, and incomplete works define the daily experience of millions. This article aims to understand why Indian roads lag behind global standards despite the country's technological and economic advancements.

India has over 63 lakh kilometers of road network - the second-largest in the world - yet a significant portion is in po...