The Global Bangalore Alliance (GBA) recently urged Bengaluru residents to walk short distances instead of using vehicles to help reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. However, the appeal has sparked a backlash from netizens who highlight the city's severe lack of proper footpaths and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Netizens React to GBA's Appeal
Many social media users expressed frustration, pointing out that walking in many parts of Bengaluru is unsafe due to broken or missing footpaths, encroachments, and heavy traffic. One user tweeted, "Where are the footpaths? We can't even walk safely to the corner store." Others shared photos of poorly maintained sidewalks, blocked by parked vehicles or garbage.
Infrastructure Challenges
Pedestrian advocates argue that the city's planning has long prioritized vehicles over walkers. A 2023 survey by the Directorate of Urban Land Transport found that only 30% of Bengaluru's roads have footpaths, and many of those are in disrepair. The GBA's suggestion, while well-intentioned, ignores these ground realities.
Environmentalists agree that walking is beneficial, but emphasize that the government must first invest in safe, accessible pedestrian infrastructure. "Without proper footpaths, asking people to walk is impractical and even dangerous," said a local activist.
Calls for Action
Citizens are demanding that the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and other authorities prioritize footpath construction and maintenance. Some have suggested that the GBA should use its influence to lobby for better infrastructure rather than just making appeals.
Despite the criticism, the GBA defended its campaign, stating that individual actions can collectively make a difference. However, they acknowledged the need for better infrastructure and promised to work with authorities to address the issue.
