Prolonged Pipeline Work Causes Chaos in Hurriopet's Commercial Hub

Bengaluru: The ongoing pipeline work by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) on Laxmanrao Road in Hurriopet, Chikkapet—a vital commercial hub—has plunged the area into disarray. Initiated eight months ago in February 2024, at a cost of ₹15 lakh, the project remains incomplete, causing severe disruption to businesses, residents, and daily life.

Laxmanrao Road, a key connector between BVK Iyengar Road and Avenue Road, lies within the Gandhinagar Assembly Constituency, represented by Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao. The work’s prolonged delay has led to deteriorating road conditions that have nearly paralyzed the local economy. This once-thriving area, known for its bustling trade in clothing, electrical goods, and hardware, now struggles with severe accessibility issues due to the unfinished roadwork.

With the road dug up and left in disrepair, vehicular movement has become almost impossible. Suppliers are forced to park on BVK Iyengar Road and carry goods by hand to the shops—a task that many find too burdensome. As a result, business activity has plummeted. “Trade has completely collapsed. Shopkeepers are struggling to pay rent, and the situation has become untenable,” lamented Vishal Jain, a local trader.

The hazardous road conditions, marked by large potholes, have deterred customers, leading to a sharp decline in foot traffic. Several people have been injured navigating the area, further exacerbating the situation. The daily dust and debris from the ongoing work have also raised health concerns among residents. “The dust is unbearable. We are exposed to it every day, and it’s affecting our health. The authorities need to act quickly,” complained Rupa, a local resident.

Despite reassurances from BBMP and BWSSB officials that the work will be completed within 15 days, residents and traders remain skeptical. “The work has been delayed because the rainy season started, but we assure that it will be completed soon,” stated a water board engineer. However, after enduring nearly eight months of disruption, these promises offer little comfort.

What was once a vibrant market area, especially busy on weekends and during festivals, now resembles a neglected construction site. Traders and customers alike are demanding swift action from the authorities to expedite the work and restore normalcy to one of Bengaluru’s key commercial streets. Without immediate intervention, the economic damage could be long-lasting, potentially leading to more business closures and further decline in this once-bustling marketplace.