West Bengal removes colorful road paint after motorcycle accidents

Authorities in West Bengal have begun removing colorful rainbow-style paint from flyovers and roads following viral videos showing motorcyclists skidding on the surfaces. The beautification drive, intended for the upcoming Durga Puja festival, included painting sections of the Gariahat Flyover, Chingrighata Flyover, and Red Road in Kolkata.

Following the accidents, civic workers began scrubbing the paint from locations such as the Gariahat Flyover and roads in Asansol. At the Chingrighata Flyover, yellow reflectors, known as ‘cats eyes’, were installed to improve safety. Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Nand noted that two-wheeler movement might be restricted during rain at the site, though officials debated whether the accidents were caused by the paint or sharp bends in the road.

State Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul defended the project, stating the colors were ‘anti-skid in nature’ and funded through CSR initiatives rather than government budgets. However, environmentalists and political figures have raised concerns, arguing that glossy paints on motorable roads pose significant safety risks and may conceal potholes.