Residents and business owners in Jalahalli Cross and Peenya Industrial Area are frustrated with the prolonged delays in constructing the Jalahalli underpass and the absence of footpaths. Planned in 2018, tenders for the underpass were awarded in 2019, and former CM Basavaraj Bommai laid the foundation stone in 2021. However, land acquisition hurdles have stalled progress, leaving commuters stuck in congestion for up to 40 minutes during peak hours.

Locals criticized the government’s inaction, questioning why white-topping was prioritized over the underpass. Pedestrians are forced to walk on service roads without footpaths, endangering their safety. “How many years does it take to build basic infrastructure like footpaths?” asked a frustrated resident.

Business owners and residents demanded accountability, with some questioning where taxpayers’ money was being utilized. Meanwhile, BBMP officials cited slow land acquisition, with only 22 of the required 40 properties secured.

The Peenya Traffic Police have deployed personnel to manage congestion and prevent BMTC buses from halting at Jalahalli Cross, but residents argue that without proper infrastructure, traffic woes will persist.