Broken footpaths, pothole-punctuated roads, and open drains have turned the school commute into a daily risk for children in Bengaluru. Parents now say walking is no longer seen as a safe or practical option for schoolchildren.
Dangerous Pathways
Uncleared garbage piles along a narrow footpath near Vivekananda Educational Centre in Jayanagar and obstructed branches outside Sacred Heart Girls' High School on Residency Road are just two examples of the hazards students face daily. The lack of proper infrastructure forces many children to walk on busy roads, increasing the risk of accidents.
Parental Concerns
Parents have expressed growing anxiety over the condition of footpaths and roads. Many have opted for private transport or school buses, but not all families can afford these alternatives. For those who rely on walking, the dangers are ever-present.
Open drains without covers, uneven pavements, and debris further compound the problem. The situation is particularly severe in older parts of the city where maintenance has been neglected for years.
Call for Action
Residents and parent-teacher associations have urged the local authorities to prioritize repairs and regular maintenance. They demand safe walking routes, proper lighting, and clear signage near schools. Until then, the daily school run remains a perilous journey for Bengaluru's children.
