Bengaluru: Just a month after the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) launched its high-profile ‘Safe Footpaths’ campaign, several pedestrian spaces cleared during the drive are once again being taken over by vendors, shop extensions and parked vehicles.
The campaign, led by Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, had cleared obstructions along nearly 850 km of roads, offering pedestrians more usable walking space. However, a reality check at several locations suggests that the relief has been short-lived.
Encroachments return across key areas
At Gandhi Bazaar, vendors shifted during the clearance drive have allegedly returned, while food trucks continue to occupy parts of the footpaths. Residents also claim that the number of vendors exceeds designated limits.
Along the Hoodi–ITPL Junction stretch, food carts, banners, garbage and debris have once again reduced the usable footpath space. Vehicles stopping near food stalls have also added to traffic congestion.
In Basaveshwaranagar, fast-food carts, tables, chairs and large flex banners are occupying pedestrian areas. Similar problems have emerged on Vidyaranyapura Main Road, where shops continue to place merchandise on cleared portions of the pavement.
Pedestrians forced back onto roads
On Dinnur Main Road in RT Nagar, vendors selling sugarcane juice and tender coconut water have reportedly returned to the footpaths. Two-wheelers parked on pavements are also forcing pedestrians onto the busy road.
In JC Nagar, vegetable and greens vendors, carts and two-wheeler garages have again occupied parts of a wide footpath. Mechanics reportedly use the pavement to park and repair vehicles, with tyres and other materials further restricting pedestrian movement.
Residents seek sustained action
The return of encroachments has raised concerns about the lack of continuous monitoring and enforcement. Residents want Krishna Byre Gowda to conduct surprise inspections of cleared stretches and take action against officials who fail to prevent fresh encroachments.
The experience has highlighted a key challenge for the ‘Safe Footpaths’ campaign: clearing pavements may provide temporary relief, but sustained enforcement will be essential to keep Bengaluru’s footpaths safe and accessible.