Deteriorating road conditions across Antigua and Barbuda are actively contributing to traffic accidents, and cosmetic repair work is making the situation worse. That is the warning from a prominent local automotive expert, according to Antigua Observer.
Paul Ryan, a local businessman with extensive experience in the automotive industry, says a cycle of excavation and inadequate patching by the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) is leaving roads in a dangerous state for motorists.
Ryan cautioned that superficial repairs — commonly known as patching — fail to address the underlying structural damage to road surfaces. As reported by Antigua Observer, he argues that this approach creates uneven road conditions that pose serious risks to drivers and vehicles alike.
The veteran automotive professional pointed to a recurring pattern in which roads are dug up for utility work and subsequently restored with insufficient materials or workmanship, leaving behind hazardous surfaces that deteriorate rapidly.
Ryan's warning shines a spotlight on a longstanding concern among Antiguans who regularly navigate the island's road network. Poor road conditions have long been a source of frustration for both private motorists and commercial operators, with vehicle damage and safety incidents frequently cited as consequences.
The calls from Ryan add to growing pressure on authorities to move beyond temporary fixes and invest in more durable, comprehensive road rehabilitation across the island.
