The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has embarked on a comprehensive footpath overhaul across the city.
This initiative aims to address longstanding issues of encroachments, poor maintenance, and infrastructural neglect that have plagued Bengaluru’s sidewalks. The BBMP’s Chief Commissioner recently conducted an extensive 2.5-kilometre inspection covering key areas such as Gubbi Thotadappa Road, Dhanwantri Road, Tank Bund Road, and the vicinity of the Kempegowda Bus Stand (Majestic). During this walkthrough, several critical issues were identified, including damaged kerb stones, broken slabs, and obstructive installations like electric poles and transformers on footpaths. Immediate directives were issued to repair these damages and remove obstructions to ensure safe and uninterrupted pedestrian movement.
The inspection also highlighted sanitation concerns, notably public urination and leaking sewage from utility ducts along footpaths. Despite the presence of public toilets, these issues persist, prompting the BBMP to initiate intensified cleanliness drives and enforce stricter sanitation regulations. Officials have been instructed to maintain cleanliness near bus stands and ensure that gratings leading to side drains are free from blockages. Encroachments by street vendors and unauthorized structures have been a significant hindrance to pedestrian movement. The BBMP has mandated that only vendors with valid identity cards may continue their trade, provided they do not obstruct footpaths or contribute to littering. Unauthorized vendors are to be cleared promptly, and building owners responsible for footpath damages due to installations like transformers are to be fined and held accountable for repair costs.
To ensure the effectiveness of these measures, ward engineers have been tasked with conducting detailed surveys of footpaths within their jurisdictions. These surveys will document encroachments, structural damages, and hygiene conditions. Zonal Joint Commissioners are expected to perform surprise inspections to verify compliance and oversee the progress of repair works. This initiative aligns with Bengaluru’s broader goals of fostering sustainable and equitable urban development. By prioritizing pedestrian infrastructure, the city aims to reduce its carbon footprint, promote eco-friendly transportation, and enhance the overall quality of urban life. The BBMP’s proactive approach reflects a commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible cityscape for all residents.
The footpath overhaul has garnered support from civic groups and residents alike. Social activists have welcomed the BBMP’s efforts, urging the extension of these initiatives to other areas with poorly maintained footpaths. The emphasis on pedestrian safety and infrastructure improvement is seen as a positive step towards addressing the challenges of urban mobility in Bengaluru. As the BBMP continues to implement these measures, the focus remains on ensuring that footpaths are safe, clean, and accessible. The success of this initiative will depend on sustained efforts, community engagement, and vigilant enforcement of regulations. With these concerted actions, Bengaluru moves closer to realizing its vision of a pedestrian-friendly and sustainable urban environment.
BBMP Launches Drive for Walkable Bengaluru
