Continuous rainfall over two days triggered widespread civic issues across the city, with the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) receiving 53 complaints of tree-falls and another 129 cases of falling branches between September 18 and 19, officials confirmed on Friday evening.
West and Central Bengaluru worst hit
Bengaluru Central Corporation recorded the highest number of tree-fall incidents with 18 cases, followed by Bengaluru West with 15. Authorities said that while most complaints had been cleared by 7 p.m. on Friday, two branch-fall cases remained under clearance.
Officials noted that the rain-related incidents caused traffic snarls and disrupted movement in several key corridors. Emergency teams were deployed swiftly to ensure fallen trees and branches were removed without major delays.
Chief Secretary inspects rain-affected zones
Chief Secretary to the Government, Shalini Rajneesh, conducted inspections at multiple flood-prone and rain-affected locations, directing officials to expedite ongoing infrastructure projects and strengthen preventive measures.
At the busy Silk Board Junction, she instructed the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) and GBA to clear silt and debris from the rajakaluve, prevent further flooding, and immediately remove construction waste choking the junction. She also ordered quick installation of favour blocks, completion of pedestrian-friendly facilities including a skywalk, and removal of unused pipes and iron scrap lying on-site.
At Iblur Junction, she stressed the urgent development of the Sarjapur service road, construction of a pedestrian skywalk, and repairs of footpaths. Rajneesh added that merging the main and service roads between Iblur and Marathahalli could significantly reduce congestion in the stretch.
Focus on problem stretches
On Balagere-Panathur Main Road, where residents have long flagged concerns about sewage overflow and poor road conditions, the Chief Secretary ordered immediate resurfacing and dredging of side drains. She also directed officials to speed up culvert construction and road-widening works to provide lasting relief.
White-topping deadline set for November
Rajneesh issued firm instructions to complete all ongoing white-topping works across the city by the end of November. She said delays not only inconvenience commuters but also worsen flooding and road damage during heavy rains.
Way forward
With rains expected to continue, civic agencies under GBA have been told to remain on high alert and attend to complaints without delay. While emergency responses helped clear most incidents this week, officials emphasised that long-term solutions — from strengthening drains to improving road infrastructure — were essential to reduce Bengaluru’s recurring monsoon woes.