Dear Editor, There is hardly a day that passes without Jamaican motorists being reminded of the deplorable condition of our roads.

From Kingston and St Andrew to St Catherine and the rural parishes, potholes have become an unwelcome feature of daily life.

Some are small, while others are so deep and wide that motorists must swerve dangerously to avoid them.

During heavy rainfall, these holes become concealed beneath water, increasing the risk of accidents and damage to vehicles.

The question is not whether Jamaica has a pothole problem, but why it continues to persist despite repeated promises of road rehabilitation and substantial public expenditure.

For many Jamaicans, travelling to work, school, or conducting business has become a frustrating and costly experience.

A single pothole can damage tyres, rims, suspension systems, and wheel alignment, leaving motorists with expensive repair bills.

For taxi operators, delivery drivers, and others who depend on their vehicles to earn a living, these costs can significantly reduce their income.

Ultimately, businesses may pass their increased operating expenses on to consumers, contributing to the already high cost of living.

The problem also threatens pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, who are particularly vulnerable when navigating damaged roads.

Poor road conditions are, therefore, not merely an inconvenience; they are a public safety concern.

One of the most frustrating features of the problem is the cycle of temporary repairs.

Potholes are filled, only to reappear weeks or months later.

This raises legitimate questions about the quality of materials, construction methods, drainage and supervision of contractors.

Repairing the surface without addressing underlying weaknesses is a false economy.

Government agencies and municipal corporations must prioritise proper drainage, durable construction, and preventative maintenance.

It is far more sensible to address minor defects early than to allow entire sections of roadway to deteriorate until expensive reconstruction becomes necessary.

Jamaica cannot continue treating potholes as an unavoidable part of everyday life.

Our roads are essential to economic development, public safety, and the movement of people and goods.

A systematic maintenance programme, supported by transparent spending, regular inspections, and quality control, would help prevent recurring damage and reduce long-term costs.

The objective must not simply be to fill potholes, but to prevent them from returning so readily.

Jamaicans deserve roads that are safe, reliable, and fit for purpose.

It is time to move beyond temporary fixes and make lasting road improvement a national priority.

A concerned Jamaican