Bengaluru's SP Road Traders Demand Relocation of Dangerous Transformer
Every day, thousands of bargain hunters flood the narrow, bustling lanes of SP Road in Bengaluru, navigating through shops overflowing with mobile accessories and computer hardware. Amid the familiar cacophony of haggling and honking, a far more alarming sound frequently pierces the air: the explosive crackle and boom of a malfunctioning electric transformer that local traders say poses a severe threat to both their lives and livelihoods.
A Persistent and Perilous Presence
Dominating the crowded bylanes near KR Market, adjacent to the Raja Rajeshwari Temple on PR Lane, stands a massive transformer that has, for years, been emitting dangerous sparks, experiencing blasts, and even catching fire. Despite repeated complaints from the business community, little to no relief has been provided, leaving traders in constant fear that a serious malfunction could trigger chaos in this densely populated commercial hub.
Alarmed by these recurring incidents, the Bangalore Electronic Dealers' Association (BEDA) recently wrote to Bescom, urgently requesting the immediate relocation of what they describe as a "high-risk" transformer. Photographic evidence shared by traders vividly shows flames erupting from the equipment during a previous incident, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Arun Jain, secretary of BEDA, emphasized the urgency: "This is a very old and enormous transformer. Sometimes it emits blasts so loud that people flee in terror. We are pleading with Bescom to permanently shift it to a safer location before a catastrophic tragedy occurs."
Impact on Business and Safety
According to local merchants, the installation of fencing around the transformer following complaints has only exacerbated the problem. The barriers have narrowed the already congested lane, blocking two shop shutters and severely restricting access for customers and employees alike.
Dilip Mali, who operates a mobile accessories shop nearby, shared his harrowing experience: "I have been here since 2017, and the transformer issue has existed from the very beginning. Previously, I employed five to six staff members, but now only two remain; the others left out of fear. I am also considering vacating because I cannot risk my life every single day. With over Rs 1 lakh worth of stock, the thought of a major fire destroying everything is terrifying."
Traders report that at least one shop adjacent to the transformer was vacated nearly eight months ago due to safety concerns. They also highlight the presence of a street food vendor who fries snacks in the open right next to the transformer, significantly heightening the risk of a devastating fire.
Proposed Solutions and Official Inaction
The association has proposed several alternative locations for the transformer, including a nearby GBA ground and space along a hospital compound wall, asserting that adequate space is available but requires coordinated efforts across multiple government departments.
Jain added, "We even met the Bescom managing director in person and submitted a formal letter. If necessary, traders are prepared to provide financial support for the relocation. However, it is the responsibility of the departments to obtain the required government permissions; this should not fall on us."
Despite multiple representations over the past few months, traders allege that no concrete action has been taken by the authorities. When contacted for comments, Bescom engineers were unavailable, leaving the business community in a state of uncertainty and anxiety.
The situation on SP Road serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for proactive infrastructure management in urban centers. As Bengaluru continues to grow and evolve, addressing such pressing safety hazards must become a priority to protect both commerce and community well-being.
