Bengaluru: The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has initiated an intensive cleaning and repair drive around the Majestic area following a viral video by Canadian resident Caleb Friesen, which highlighted the poor state of the city’s pedestrian footpaths.
Viral video sparks civic action
Friesen’s video documented his 2.4 km walk from Majestic bus stand to a Starbucks outlet entirely using footpaths. The footage revealed stretches blocked by barbed wire, garbage heaps, broken pavements, and stairwells leading directly into open drains. Caleb described the walk as “a nice little walk, if you can actually use the footpaths,” underscoring the hazards faced by daily pedestrians.
The video quickly went viral on social media, prompting public discussion and criticism over Bengaluru’s pedestrian infrastructure.
Clean-up and repair operations
In response, the GBA launched a focused clean-up drive, removing debris, repairing damaged pathways, and clearing obstacles to ensure safer walking spaces. Photos of the operations were shared on X (@GBAoffic), showcasing the visible improvement along the affected stretches.
Following the clean-up, Caleb himself shared before-and-after photos of the stretch, acknowledging the authority’s rapid response. “No more parkour over barbed wire required by pedestrians,” he quipped, highlighting the stark difference from his earlier experience.
Public reaction
The swift action earned praise from Bengalureans online, with many lauding Caleb for drawing attention to a persistent urban issue. Some netizens suggested that the video should serve as a catalyst for broader infrastructure improvements, pointing out other problem areas such as the Bellandur–Yemalur stretch, notorious for its poor pedestrian facilities.
While residents welcomed the clean-up around Majestic, many emphasized that such improvements should be systematic and long-term rather than reactive to viral incidents.
Urban planning and pedestrian safety concerns
The episode has once again spotlighted Bengaluru’s fragile urban planning, with repeated lapses in basic infrastructure affecting pedestrian safety. Experts argue that regular maintenance, enforcement against encroachments, and citizen engagement are essential to ensure walkable, safe public spaces across the city.
The GBA’s recent efforts may serve as a model for other civic bodies in India, demonstrating the effectiveness of quick, visible action in response to public complaints and social media attention.
As Bengaluru continues to grow as a tech and business hub, the importance of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure remains critical for urban livability and safety.