A viral video exposing Bengaluru's crumbling infrastructure has sparked nationwide outrage, showing desperate motorists riding through what appears to be open drainage channels to bypass severe traffic congestion caused by prolonged road construction delays.
Construction Delays Trigger Commuter Nightmare
The crisis unfolded on the crucial Panathur-Balagere corridor, where the main Kadubeesanahalli-Panathur stretch has been completely shut for several weeks. The road closure began on October 10, 2025 for white-topping concretisation work that was originally scheduled for completion by October month-end.
However, civic agencies failed to meet the deadline, forcing thousands of daily commuters onto narrow service lanes and dangerously dug-up byroads. The now-viral Instagram video from @jist.news shows multiple two-wheeler riders navigating a muddy, drain-like path while auto-rickshaws and other vehicles remain stuck in the chaotic congestion.
Social Media Erupts Over Infrastructure Crisis
The shocking footage has triggered intense criticism from citizens and netizens alike, highlighting the poor management of Bengaluru's infrastructure projects. Many social media users expressed frustration over the situation's impact on public safety and daily commute.
One user commented about the broader implications, stating this reflects the side effects of freebie culture causing fund shortages for development projects. Another frustrated commuter advised avoiding the route entirely, suggesting alternative roads like ORR.
Most notably, several responses referenced the ongoing language debate in Karnataka, with one user sarcastically suggesting that fighting over Kannada would fix this, indicating public perception that authorities are prioritizing political issues over basic infrastructure.
Commuters Risk Lives Amid Failed Deadlines
The situation has become so dire that commuters are literally risking their lives by riding through drainage channels and crossing railway lines to avoid being stuck in endless traffic jams. While some critics blame desperate commuters for taking dangerous shortcuts, the overwhelming sentiment points to systemic failure in project planning and execution.
This incident adds to Bengaluru's growing reputation as a city struggling with infrastructure management despite its status as India's Silicon Valley. The video has amplified existing concerns about the city's transportation woes, coming shortly after another viral clip showed passengers waiting for hours to get cabs at Bengaluru airport.
As construction delays continue with no clear resolution timeline, Bengaluru's commuters face daily hardships that underscore the urgent need for better project management and accountability from civic authorities.
