Bengaluru: For over twenty years, residents of Electronics City Phase 2 have endured crumbling roads, thick dust, and monsoon flooding — all while living in one of Bengaluru’s prime IT hubs. Frustrated by years of official apathy, a group of women from apartment complexes in the locality are now leading a citizens’ demonstration on November 29, with support from nearby schools and commercial establishments.
A protest born out of neglect
The protest will highlight the civic neglect along the 4-km stretch that connects Ananth Nagar, Singena Agrahara, Ram Sagara, and Heelalige — a route used daily by thousands of commuters. Residents say the stretch is so badly damaged that it takes up to 40 minutes to reach the national highway.
“The last proper road was laid more than a decade ago,” said Priya Kumar, a resident since 2005. “That road barely lasted eight months before it disintegrated. Every time we approach officials, we’re told funds are sanctioned, but nothing ever happens.”
Everyday struggle on a key IT corridor
Electronics City Phase 2 is home to over 14 residential layouts, multiple schools, and several small and medium-sized businesses. Despite being a major residential catchment area for IT professionals, civic infrastructure remains dismal.
Potholes, open drains, and dust clouds have made travel and living conditions unbearable. Locals report frequent accidents and vehicle damage due to the uneven, gravel-filled roads. “People have fallen and fractured bones, and car suspensions get damaged regularly,” said a resident. “When we question the MLA, we’re asked who we voted for. That’s the level of indifference.”
Health and safety at risk
Residents say that the poor road conditions and constant dust have led to rising health issues, particularly among children and senior citizens. “I developed bronchitis because of constant exposure to dust,” said Veena, another resident. “Many children in our apartment suffer from respiratory infections. During monsoon, the entire stretch turns into a slushy mess, making it nearly impossible to walk or drive safely.”
According to residents, the area lacks proper drainage systems, which worsens flooding during heavy rains. Stagnant water not only damages vehicles but also increases the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Repeated pleas to authorities ignored
Locals claim that despite numerous complaints to the Anekal MLA B Shivanna and panchayat officials, no meaningful action has been taken. “We’ve written letters, met the MLA, and even filed online petitions. But there has been zero follow-up,” said an organiser of the upcoming protest. “We’re not asking for luxury. We just want a basic, motorable road.”
The area currently falls under the Chandapura panchayat, which residents argue lacks the resources and accountability required to manage an urban neighbourhood of this scale. Many believe that inclusion under the proposed Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) would bring better governance and infrastructure.
Call for inclusion under city governance
Residents are now demanding that Electronics City Phase 2 be brought under Bengaluru’s urban jurisdiction. They argue that despite paying high property and road taxes, they receive none of the civic benefits enjoyed by those within the city limits.
“The irony is that we live in one of the city’s key IT corridors, which contributes massively to Bengaluru’s economy, but we still drive on crater-filled roads,” said another resident. “If the authorities can maintain roads in the central business district, why can’t they fix just a few kilometres here?”
A fight for dignity and accountability
The November 29 demonstration is expected to draw hundreds of residents, including parents, school authorities, and business owners. Organisers say they will march peacefully and submit a formal memorandum to the Bengaluru Urban Development Department.
“This is a collective cry for good roads,” said one of the women leading the movement. “We’ve waited long enough. If we don’t raise our voice now, we’ll be waiting another decade.”
Despite multiple attempts, MLA B Shivanna was unavailable for comment.
As the protest date nears, residents hope their united stand will finally draw attention to a problem that has persisted for years — transforming a neglected 4-km stretch into a symbol of civic failure and citizen resilience.