The West Bengal government's decision to paint roads, bridges, and public infrastructure in blue and white—widely seen as Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's preferred colors—has once again stirred controversy. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Calcutta High Court, challenging the widespread use of these colors, citing safety concerns for motorists and questioning the government's priorities.
Safety Concerns Raised
The petitioner argues that painting roads and bridges in blue and white is not just an aesthetic choice but a dangerous one. According to the legal challenge, road safety standards are determined by the Indian Road Congress (IRC), which recommends using colors such as white, yellow, and black for visibility and safety. These colors are scientifically proven to enhance visibility, especially at night. However, ignoring these guidelines, the TMC-led government has imposed its preferred blue-and-white scheme, allegedly making night driving riskier. The petitioner’s lawyer highlighted that the altered road colors compromise visibility, increasing the chances of accidents, particularly for nighttime drivers.
High Court Acknowledges the Issue
Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam, while admitting the PIL, acknowledged the gravity of the issue and indicated that a hearing would soon take place. The court’s recognition of the matter as a serious concern has further intensified the debate surrounding the state government’s decision. The petitioner also pointed out that other essential public safety regulations, such as the mandated yellow color for school buses, are based on scientific reasoning and should not be altered for political symbolism.
Political Symbolism vs. Governance
Critics argue that Mamata Banerjee’s government has prioritized symbolism over real governance. Instead of addressing West Bengal’s pressing issues—such as unemployment, deteriorating law and order, and mounting state debt—the TMC regime has fixated on superficial changes like painting public infrastructure in party colors. Earlier the opposition BJP has strongly condemned the move, accusing the ruling party of turning the state into a “personal fiefdom” rather than focusing on development and governance.
Public Backlash and Future Implications
Many citizens have voiced their frustration over what they perceive as the misuse of public funds for political branding rather than meaningful progress. The state’s deteriorating road conditions, lack of infrastructural development, and financial mismanagement continue to be major concerns. This legal challenge could set a precedent, questioning the TMC government's tendency to prioritize optics over effective governance.
As the High Court prepares to hear the case, the Mamata-led government faces yet another instance of public discontent, raising concerns over whether the state's administration is truly working in the public’s best interest or merely engaging in political theatrics.
