Bengaluru: The recent installation of steel barricades along Whitefield Main Road, between Hope Farm Junction and Varthur Kodi, has drawn sharp criticism from residents, who say the move has made road crossings difficult and created a stretch unfit for pedestrians.
Pedestrian concerns
Members of the local civic group Whitefield Rising and daily commuters say the barricades ignore pedestrian needs and promote private vehicle use. With few dedicated signals and closed U-turns, residents claim the changes have worsened the inconvenience.
“Whitefield Main Road has been a mess for a long time, with constant digging and incomplete pavements. Now, with permanent barricades on the median, people cannot cross easily,” said Shailaja, a resident of over 15 years.
Another resident, Inish of Prestige White Meadows, added, “Earlier, I could walk to the church opposite my apartment in two minutes. Now, I must walk nearly a kilometre to the nearest signal, which takes 15 minutes. It adds to traffic if we drive instead.”
Impact on vulnerable groups
Residents highlighted that senior citizens, schoolchildren, and daily walkers are especially affected. “There’s an 83-year-old woman in our community who regularly goes to church. With barricades everywhere, how is she expected to cross?” Inish asked.
Authorities’ stance
A traffic official explained that the barricades were installed to reduce accidents on this high-density corridor.
“The installation ensures pedestrians cross only at designated areas, preventing fatal accidents caused by high-speed traffic,” the official said.
However, residents insist that without proper signals, safe crossings, and continuous pavements, pedestrians are forced to risk unsafe crossings or abandon walking altogether.