A recent encroachment clearance drive at Bengaluru’s iconic KR Market has triggered a dispute between civic authorities and flower merchants, who claim that several illegal structures continue to operate despite official assurances.
Traders question anti-encroachment drive
The Bengaluru Central City Corporation (BCCC) carried out a clean-up and encroachment removal exercise around KR Market, targeting shops and structures blocking pathways and entrances.
However, the KR Market Flower Merchants Association has alleged that 22 illegal shops located in the market’s ventilation area were left untouched despite repeated complaints over the years.
According to the association, the space is meant to remain obstruction-free to ensure access during emergencies such as fires and rescue operations.
Long-running dispute resurfaces
Association president GN Diwakar said traders had repeatedly raised the issue with officials since 2016, including the erstwhile BBMP’s market, revenue and engineering departments.
The traders also claimed that a Public Interest Litigation had previously been filed regarding the encroachments. They allege that while authorities had informed the court that illegal shops had been removed, several continue to function.
Officials claim all encroachments removed
Civic officials maintain that the drive was conducted following instructions issued after a recent visit by senior Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) officials.
Authorities stated that encroachments at entrances, pathways and other identified locations, including the disputed shops, were cleared during the operation.
Traders raise flooding concerns
Apart from encroachments, traders have also complained about recurring flooding in the upper basement area of the market.
They allege that civil works undertaken as part of a private parking project in the lower basement altered stormwater flow patterns, causing rainwater to accumulate in sections occupied by flower and pooja item vendors.
The conflicting claims have set the stage for further scrutiny of civic management and infrastructure conditions at one of Bengaluru’s busiest wholesale markets.