BENGALURU: The ongoing brushed concrete footpath development along Kundalahalli Main Road has sparked widespread appreciation from prominent Bengalureans, including Biocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and former Infosys director TV Mohandas Pai. The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) on Monday released fresh images of the upgraded pavement, highlighting the civic body’s efforts to create safer and more durable pedestrian infrastructure.
GBA showcases new brushed concrete pavement
The GBA announced that construction of the brushed concrete footpath is currently in progress along the busy corridor falling under the Bengaluru East City Corporation limits. Officials said the upgrade aims to significantly enhance walkability, reduce tripping hazards, and ensure longer-lasting footpaths with minimal need for frequent repairs.
The brushed concrete design is considered sturdier than traditional block tiles, which often become uneven or dislodged after repeated utility work or poor reinstatement by agencies.
City leaders welcome the upgrade
The project received an enthusiastic response from notable residents.
Biocon’s Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw commended the initiative and appealed to the public to maintain the new walkway, saying:
“Hope citizens and hawkers keep it clean and free from encroachment.”
Mohandas Pai also applauded the GBA and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar for prioritising pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
“Thank you for giving us a good footpath. Bengaluru should be made a walking city,” he posted, reiterating the need to transform urban mobility.
Mixed reactions emerge on social media
The announcement sparked a lively discussion on X, with users sharing both appreciation and concerns.
Praise for durability
Many welcomed the shift from block tiles to concrete, arguing that tiles often fail to withstand long-term usage or are poorly re-laid after cable and pipeline work.
“This is much better than tiles, which when removed are placed back in a haphazard way,” wrote one user.
Another commented that concrete surfaces are “much easier to repair” and less prone to crumbling.
Concerns over maintenance and encroachment
However, several users worried that without strict enforcement, the path may soon be damaged like earlier projects.
Past footpaths were often marred by:
- Illegal digging for utilities
- Encroachment by hawkers
- Two-wheeler parking
- Broken edges due to unregulated access
“Implement very high fines for anyone who misuses this. Absolutely important!” one user urged.
Debate over design and sustainability
A section of environmental-conscious users raised concerns about the lack of permeable surfaces. They argued that fully concretised pavements could worsen stormwater runoff and increase flooding risks.
“Global cities are moving to sponge-city concepts, but Bengaluru is still stuck in 1990s concrete-as-development mentality,” a user commented, adding that the brushed surface may also turn slippery during rains.
Some also suggested alternatives such as large-format paver tiles, which they said strike a balance between durability and permeability.
Push for pedestrian-first urban planning
The Kundalahalli footpath project arrives at a time when Bengaluru is under pressure to improve pedestrian infrastructure amid increasing traffic congestion and safety concerns. Experts say consistent maintenance, utility coordination and enforcement will be crucial for the success of such projects across the city.
With city leaders and citizens engaging actively, the upgraded footpath could become a benchmark for larger walkability initiatives if supported by long-term upkeep and regulation.