Bengaluru: Hundreds of traders opposite KR Market were left devastated on Wednesday after the Bengaluru Central City Corporation demolished more than 200 makeshift shops as part of its footpath encroachment clearance drive.
The demolition, aimed at reclaiming public footpaths, reduced decades-old businesses to rubble, leaving many shopkeepers in tears as they watched their livelihoods disappear before their eyes.
Traders plead with officials
As demolition crews moved in, several traders attempted to stop the exercise by producing decades-old documents, claiming they had been operating their businesses legally for years.
However, officials continued the drive, removing structures that were allegedly encroaching on public footpaths.
Many shopkeepers said they had invested their life savings into the businesses and feared they would now struggle to support their families.
Livelihoods wiped out
The demolition affected vendors selling a variety of goods near one of Bengaluru’s busiest commercial hubs.
Several traders expressed shock and anger, saying they were given little opportunity to protect their establishments or relocate before the action was carried out.
For many families dependent on the businesses, the demolition has created uncertainty about their future income and employment.
Encroachment drive continues
The Bengaluru Central City Corporation said the operation was part of an ongoing campaign to remove encroachments from footpaths and restore space for pedestrians.
Authorities have been conducting similar drives across different parts of the city to improve accessibility and reduce illegal occupation of public spaces.
While civic officials maintain that reclaiming footpaths is necessary for public convenience and urban planning, the demolition has once again highlighted the difficult balance between enforcing civic regulations and protecting the livelihoods of small traders..