Bengaluru: Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has criticised the owner of a Mercedes car after the luxury vehicle was spotted parked on a footpath in Bengaluru, calling it a clear example of a lack of civic sense amid the city’s ongoing efforts to reclaim pedestrian spaces.
The entrepreneur shared a photograph of the alleged parking violation on social media platform X, questioning why motorists continue to disregard public spaces meant for pedestrians despite repeated awareness campaigns and enforcement drives.
‘No civic sense,’ says Biocon founder
Expressing her disappointment, Mazumdar-Shaw said the incident reflected a complete disregard for pedestrian rights and civic responsibility. She pointed out that the violation came at a time when the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and traffic police are working to free footpaths from encroachments and illegal parking.
Her post quickly gained traction, with thousands of users supporting her stand and calling for stricter action against motorists who occupy pavements.
Residents highlight recurring problem
The post sparked a wave of responses from Bengaluru residents, many of whom shared photographs and experiences of vehicles parked on footpaths and roadsides across different parts of the city.
Several users said illegal parking forces pedestrians, senior citizens and persons with disabilities to walk on busy roads, increasing the risk of accidents. Others urged civic authorities to impose heavier fines and ensure consistent enforcement of parking rules.
Calls for stricter enforcement
The incident has once again highlighted Bengaluru’s persistent challenge of protecting pedestrian infrastructure from misuse. Citizens have called for stronger monitoring and swift penalties against offenders to discourage similar violations.
Authorities have repeatedly appealed to motorists to park only in designated spaces and respect public infrastructure, stressing that footpaths are meant exclusively for pedestrians.
The viral post has reignited discussions on civic responsibility, with many hoping it will encourage greater awareness and stricter compliance with traffic and parking regulations.