Bengaluru: Two skywalks built to help pedestrians safely cross the busy Dr M.H. Marigowda Road have become a safety concern themselves, with users complaining of broken lifts, rusted staircases, exposed wires and poor maintenance.
The structures, located on Lakkasandra Main Road, are reportedly in a neglected condition, making them difficult and unsafe to use despite being essential for crossing the heavily trafficked stretch.
Defunct lifts leave pedestrians struggling
One of the skywalks, located near the Bangalore Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital on Hosur Road, is in a particularly poor state. The iron structure has begun to rust, lifts remain out of service, garbage has accumulated inside, and paan stains cover several sections.
With wide road dividers making it difficult to cross on foot, pedestrians say they have little option but to use the deteriorating structure.
“We carry goods from the market every day. Since the lift is not working, we have to climb the stairs while carrying heavy loads,” said Sumitramma, a nearby vendor.
Residents raise safety concerns
Users have also complained about poor lighting, non-functional CCTV cameras and exposed electrical wiring concealed behind advertisement banners.
“The skywalk is poorly lit and filled with garbage. We feel unsafe using it, especially in the evenings,” said Vanitha, who works at a nearby shop.
Another skywalk connecting a private university and a tech park on the same road has also fallen into disrepair. Students said the lifts are non-functional, the staircases are rusting and posters have covered much of the structure.
Residents questioned why new skywalk projects are being proposed while existing infrastructure remains neglected.
Authorities promise repairs
A junior engineer with the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) said the private university has been given one month to repair the lift at one skywalk.
For the other structure, officials said a fresh tender has been floated for comprehensive repair and maintenance works.