Residents of Malleswaram in Bengaluru staged a peaceful protest on Sunday, calling it a 'Saaku Walk', to voice their frustration over prolonged delays in roadwork and severely damaged footpaths in the area. The protest comes after months of incomplete construction that has left main roads barricaded and forced the diversion of public transport through narrow residential streets.
Safety Concerns Over Bus Diversion
A key issue raised by the protesters was the diversion of the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation's (BMTC) Route 90E. After parts of the main road were barricaded for construction, the bus route was rerouted through narrow residential roads near a high school. Residents expressed serious safety concerns, noting that the narrow lanes are not designed to handle heavy bus traffic, especially near a school where children's safety is paramount.
Damaged Footpaths and Inconvenience
The condition of footpaths in the area was another major grievance. Many footpaths are broken, uneven, or completely missing, forcing pedestrians, including senior citizens and children, to walk on the road alongside vehicles. Residents highlighted that the situation has persisted for months with no visible progress or timeline for completion.
During the 'Saaku Walk', participants carried placards and chanted slogans demanding immediate action from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and other concerned authorities. The protest remained peaceful and was coordinated by local resident welfare associations.
Residents Demand Timely Completion
Speaking at the protest, residents said they have been patient for too long. 'Enough of delays,' they chanted, calling for a clear deadline for the roadwork and proper restoration of footpaths. They also demanded that the bus route be restored to its original path once construction is complete, and that safety measures be implemented immediately for the diverted route.
The protest highlights a growing frustration among Bengaluru's citizens over infrastructure projects that drag on for months without proper planning or regard for public safety. Residents have vowed to continue their agitation if their demands are not met promptly.
