The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) conducted a joint footpath clearance drive, covering 8.55 kilometers across the city. The operation deployed 80 personnel, six JCB excavators, 20 tractors, and five tippers to remove encroachments and obstructions from pedestrian pathways.
Scope of the Drive
According to BBMP officials, the clearance was part of a broader initiative to reclaim footpaths for pedestrians. The drive targeted major roads and commercial areas where vendors and parked vehicles had narrowed walkways. Authorities emphasized that the action was a "considered measure" aimed at improving pedestrian safety and urban mobility.
"This is not a knee-jerk reaction. We have been planning this for months, and we are mindful of the livelihood concerns of street vendors," said a senior BBMP official, speaking on condition of anonymity. The official added that the civic body had issued prior notices and held consultations with vendor associations before the drive.
Impact on Vendors
While the government asserts it is being considerate, the clearance has displaced many informal vendors who rely on footpath spaces for their daily earnings. The BBMP has designated alternative vending zones in some areas, but vendors claim these are inadequate or located far from customer footfall. "We were told to shift, but where do we go? The new spots have no customers," said Lakshmi, a fruit seller near Majestic bus station.
The drive also targeted parked two-wheelers and four-wheelers that had been illegally occupying footpaths. Over 100 vehicles were towed, and fines were imposed on owners. Traffic police supported the operation to ensure smooth execution.
Future Plans
The BBMP plans to extend the clearance to other wards in the coming weeks. Officials stated that the exercise would be periodic to prevent re-encroachment. "We will maintain the cleared footpaths with regular patrols and strict enforcement," the official added. The total cost of the operation was estimated at ₹12 lakh, including equipment rental and manpower.
Pedestrian rights groups welcomed the move but called for long-term solutions. "Clearing footpaths is essential, but the city needs permanent vending zones and better urban design to balance the needs of all users," said Ashwin Mahesh, an urban planner.
