Bengaluru: Beneath the constant flow of traffic at some of Bengaluru’s busiest junctions lies a network of pedestrian underpasses built to help people cross roads safely. Designed as a key component of the city’s pedestrian infrastructure, these underground passages were intended to reduce accidents and improve mobility. However, many of them are now grappling with issues such as encroachment, poor maintenance, inadequate lighting and flooding, raising concerns about pedestrian safety.

Vital infrastructure facing persistent challenges

Pedestrian underpasses were introduced to provide safe passage across busy roads and intersections where crossing at street level is often dangerous. With increasing traffic volumes and the construction of flyovers and elevated corridors, many pedestrians have little choice but to use these facilities.

Despite their importance, several underpasses across Bengaluru continue to face maintenance and safety issues. Encroachments by vendors, malfunctioning infrastructure, waterlogging during rain and poor lighting have reduced their effectiveness and convenience for users.

The situation has sparked debate over whether pedestrian infrastructure has received adequate attention amid the city’s focus on large-scale transport projects.

Pedestrian deaths remain a concern

The condition of pedestrian infrastructure has gained significance in light of road accident statistics released by Bengaluru Traffic Police.

According to official data, 292 pedestrians were killed in road accidents in 2023. The number stood at 246 in 2024, increased to 260 in 2025 and reached 90 by April 2026.

Authorities have consistently encouraged pedestrians to use designated crossing facilities such as underpasses and skywalks to reduce accident risks. However, users argue that poor maintenance often discourages people from using them.

KR Market underpass faces accessibility issues

The pedestrian underpass at KR Market, refurbished under the Smart City project at an estimated cost of around ₹21 crore and handed over in 2022, connects several key locations, including Victoria Hospital, Kalasipalya Main Road, KR Market Bus Terminal, Mysore Road, KR Road and SJP Road.

While the facility is equipped with escalators, users complain that they are not functioning, making access difficult for senior citizens, people with disabilities and vendors carrying heavy loads.

Many vendors continue to cross busy roads instead of using the underpass, defeating its intended purpose.

Commuters have also pointed out difficulties in navigating the multiple entry and exit points, especially during peak hours when the area is crowded with market activity.

Encroachment affects Majestic underpass

The underpass at Majestic has become heavily encroached upon by vendors selling various goods, from footwear to electronic items.

According to regular users, stalls and stored merchandise occupy significant portions of the passage and even extend onto stairways, making pedestrian movement difficult.

Commuters report that navigating the underpass often takes longer than expected due to congestion caused by commercial activity.

Women travellers have also raised safety concerns, stating that the crowded environment and poor visibility make them uncomfortable, particularly during evening hours.

A separate underpass connecting the Metro station to Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna Railway Station reportedly suffers from inadequate lighting, forcing many users to rely on mobile phone flashlights while passing through.

Flooding and maintenance concerns on Bellary Road

At the underpass connecting the Veterinary College and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) office on Bellary Road, maintenance issues have become a major concern.

The passage is widely used by students and pedestrians because flyovers and road dividers limit alternative crossing options. However, the expiry of a maintenance contract and delays in issuing a new tender have reportedly left the facility dusty and poorly maintained.

Users and on-site personnel have also reported flooding during rainfall. Concerns have been raised about a panic button installed for emergencies that is reportedly non-functional.

Students say waterlogging often forces them to seek alternative routes that may not provide adequate pedestrian facilities, exposing them to traffic risks.

Civic authorities promise improvements

A similar situation has been reported at the underpass linking Maharani Cluster University on Sheshadri Road with Nrupathunga Road, where users have highlighted maintenance concerns.

Responding to the issues, officials from Bengaluru North City Corporation stated that pedestrian underpasses form an important part of the city’s monsoon preparedness plans. Authorities said efforts are underway to improve conditions and address recurring problems.

Officials noted that several vehicular and pedestrian underpasses under their jurisdiction have been painted and marked to discourage usage during periods of severe flooding.

Need for pedestrian-focused planning

Urban planners and civic activists argue that pedestrian infrastructure deserves the same attention as major transportation projects. While Bengaluru continues to invest in Metro expansion, flyovers and road networks, the condition of footpaths and underpasses directly affects thousands of residents who rely on walking as part of their daily commute.

Improving accessibility, lighting, cleanliness and security within underpasses could encourage greater usage and contribute to reducing pedestrian fatalities on city roads.

As Bengaluru grows, ensuring safe and functional infrastructure for pedestrians remains a crucial component of building a more inclusive and sustainable urban transport system.