Where is the consideration for the people?

THE EDITOR, Madam:

An organisation cannot function properly simply because the person at the top is kind, considerate, and thoughtful while others behave as though the public does not matter.

This reality is painfully visible on some of our roads.

Take, for example, the large, deep pothole beneath the bridge at Williamsfield in Manchester, or the many dangerous holes under the bridge at Foga Road in Denbigh. These craters are capable of causing tyre damage, bent rims, serious accidents, and possibly even loss of life.

What is troubling is that representatives from local government, the police, and transport authorities travel these same roads daily. They see these hazards repeatedly, yet nothing meaningful is done.

It is difficult to accept the argument that every road issue must wait on billion-dollar approvals and large infrastructure projects. Some problems are so simple and urgent that they can be addressed immediately with basic materials — a few bags of cement, sand, and aggregate, mixed and poured as a temporary safety measure until permanent repairs are carried out.

This is what concern for people looks like.

When transport authorities are conducting spot checks beside these very potholes — inspecting taxis for defects while motorists are forced to dangerously manoeuvre around road craters — it sends a disturbing message. It creates the impression that enforcement matters more than the comfort and safety of the citizens they are meant to serve.

Somewhere along the way, many of our civil servants seem to have lost sight of the true meaning of public service. A civil servant is entrusted with the responsibility of caring for the public's welfare and responding to obvious problems with urgency and compassion.

It seems that the prime minister is fully aware of the level of neglect and indifference many ordinary Jamaicans face at the lower levels of governance. Because, if simple, dangerous hazards remain ignored day after day while officials pass them constantly, then something is deeply wrong with the culture of service.

A society is not judged only by major highways, speeches, or large development projects. It is also judged by how quickly it responds to the small, everyday problems that affect ordinary citizens.

Sometimes the greatest demonstration of leadership is simply showing that you care.

CARLTON FEARON

Manchester