Bengaluru: Concerned about the constriction of the already congested Kanakapura Road under the BBMP’s high-density corridor project, residents took to the streets on Sunday, demanding a complete ban on vehicle parking along the 10-km stretch. The demonstration, characterised by colourful displays including Yakshagana and Kathakali performances, saw participation from several resident welfare associations (RWAs) along the major thoroughfare.
The BBMP has commenced work on its ambitious project to streamline traffic on Kanakapura Road by providing a uniform 7.5-metre wide carriageway from Banashankari Temple to the NICE intersection near the Silk Institute. However, residents have criticised the civic body for reducing the carriageway by 3 metres, exacerbating the existing congestion. The stretch has several bottlenecks,” said a resident of Maya Indraprastha Apartments in Jaraganahalli. “While it is 10.5 metres wide at some points, it narrows to just 7.5-8 metres at locations like Yelachenahalli and Jaraganahalli. If BBMP takes away the entire stretch, where will pedestrians walk? The existing footpath is already uneven and often encroached upon.”
What has particularly incensed locals is the BBMP’s decision to allow parking on the road. “We support widening the footpath to ensure a safe space for pedestrians and cyclists,” said an official from Changemakers of Kanakapura Road, an umbrella body of all RWAs along the road. “But engineers have informed us that the 2.5-metre space on either side of the road will be converted into parking areas, leaving pedestrians with only a 1 to 1.5-metre footpath, which is already damaged or encroached upon by shops and commercial establishments. BBMP must immediately enforce a ban on parking and convert the paved stretch into bus lanes or pedestrian space.”
Local resident expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the BBMP. “There was no consultation or communication with residents about the work,” he said. “BBMP engineers initially assured us that parking would not be allowed, but now they have changed their stance. The residents’ protest highlights the need for a more pedestrian-friendly approach to urban planning in Bengaluru. With the BBMP’s project aimed at improving traffic flow, it is crucial that the civic body addresses the concerns of local residents to ensure a balanced and effective solution. By prioritising pedestrian safety and convenience, Bengaluru can make strides towards a more sustainable and liveable city.
