The sluggish progress of repair work to address sewage overflow and inadequate drainage on Sadar Patrappa (SP) Road in Chickpet is disrupting businesses and worsening traffic congestion, say traders, residents, and motorists.
SP Road, located near KR Market, is a bustling hub known as one of India’s largest markets for electronic goods. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is upgrading a 350-meter stretch between Dasappa Hospital and Corporation Circle. The project involves laying a one-meter-wide pipeline for stormwater drainage on both sides of the road, along with a 300-mm sanitary pipe. Provisions are also being made for household water connections, and ducts for power and optical fibre cables, before white-topping the road.
“The old pipes couldn’t handle the load, causing leaks and overflows. This integrated solution will address multiple issues,” a BBMP official explained, adding that the work is slated for completion by mid-February.
However, business owners are bearing the brunt of the delays. Sunil Punjabi, who runs an industrial supply store, voiced his frustration: “Our retail and supply chains are struggling due to restricted access.” Shantilal, an electrical goods retailer, noted a drastic decline in customer visits. “We used to welcome 50-100 customers daily. Now, it’s down to 15 because the roads are blocked, and cargo vans can’t enter.”
The year-end sales rush, typically a lucrative period, is noticeably absent, leaving traders anxious about recovery.
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