Bengaluru: Bengaluru’s five newly formed city corporations have begun the process of developing a fresh network of skywalks across the city, aiming to improve pedestrian safety and reduce the growing number of road accident fatalities.
The Bengaluru East City Corporation (BECC) has floated tenders to construct 15 skywalks under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model. The selected concessionaire will be permitted to generate revenue through static advertisements displayed on the structures, in accordance with the Greater Bengaluru Area (Advertisement) Rules, 2025.
Modern skywalks with improved accessibility
According to the tender conditions, the concessionaire will operate and maintain the skywalks for 15 years while paying an annual fee to the corporation.
The proposed skywalks are expected to feature modern safety and accessibility measures, including lifts and escalators, making them easier to use for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and other pedestrians.
Meanwhile, the Bengaluru Central City Corporation (BCCC) has invited tenders for a skywalk at the busy Domlur junction, connecting 100 Feet Road in Indiranagar with the Inner Ring Road above the Domlur flyover.
More projects planned across the city
Officials said the remaining city corporations are also preparing to invite tenders after completing feasibility studies.
According to Rajendra K.V., Commissioner of Bengaluru West City Corporation (BWCC), feasibility studies have been completed at eight locations, with tenders for four sites expected to be issued soon.
The Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) estimates that the city requires at least 101 additional skywalks. Bengaluru currently has only 82 skywalks, many of which require urgent repairs and better maintenance.
Focus on reducing pedestrian deaths
Traffic police data shows that 931 pedestrians have lost their lives in Bengaluru since 2023, with many accidents occurring while people attempted to cross busy roads lacking safe pedestrian infrastructure.
Authorities believe the new skywalk network, along with improved maintenance of existing facilities, will play a crucial role in making Bengaluru’s roads safer for pedestrians.