Bengaluru: Encroached footpaths near Banashankari Metro Station have once again highlighted the growing challenges faced by pedestrians in Bengaluru, with blocked walkways forcing people onto busy roads and exposing them to unnecessary risks.
From piles of vegetable waste to cartons stacked by shopkeepers, footpaths meant for pedestrians are increasingly being used for storage and commercial activities, leaving little room for safe movement.
Footpaths blocked by waste and goods
At several locations near Banashankari Metro Station, hawkers and shopkeepers have allegedly occupied public footpaths with discarded vegetable waste, cartons and other materials.
The encroachments not only obstruct pedestrian movement but also create slippery and unsafe walking conditions, particularly where rotting vegetables have been dumped.
With the footpaths rendered unusable, many pedestrians are left with no option but to walk on the road alongside moving vehicles.
Safety concerns grow
Residents say the situation reflects a broader civic issue across Bengaluru, where footpaths are often treated as extensions of shops, storage areas or vending spaces instead of being preserved for pedestrians.
Urban planners and road safety advocates have repeatedly stressed that accessible and obstruction-free footpaths are essential for ensuring the safety of senior citizens, children and persons with disabilities.
Calls for stricter enforcement
Citizens have urged civic authorities to remove encroachments and ensure that footpaths remain dedicated to pedestrians.
They have also called for regular inspections and stricter enforcement against illegal occupation of public walkways, saying improved pedestrian infrastructure is essential for a safer and more walkable Bengaluru.
The issue has once again renewed discussions on civic accountability and the need to reclaim public spaces intended for pedestrians.