The clamour among Bengaluru’s citizens over the proposed elevated corridor hit a crescendo on Wednesday.

Citizens representatives and RWAs petitioned the deputy chief minister (DCM) urging to clarify about the project as the debate over the proposal has been ‘skewed by a few angry voices’.

Following the meeting with RWAs, DCM G Parameshwara tweeted assuring all stake holders will be consulted.

Several RWAs and representatives from the city met Parameshwara and submitted a memorandum expressing support for the project. “The road network is inadequate even for Bengaluru’s present population. If we extrapolate in terms of population growth, it becomes clear that the present road network cannot meet the needs over the next several years,” petitioners voiced.

They appealed that the tranquility of residential zones is threatened by through traffic while trying to avoid clogged roads. Residents are forced to deal with air and noise pollution.

“The urgent need is to augment the arterial road network to avoid clogging residential roads,” they warned.

Sources close to Parameshwara say some RWAs, initially part of the ‘beda group’, realising the importance of the
project, are now expressing support for the elevated corridor.

“We urge the government to do more to make the case among public as the debate has been skewed by a few angry voices who are creating a perception that the citizenry is against this project. If the government does a transparent exercise, it will go a long way towards building significant support,” the RWAs said.

On of his meeting with RWAs, Parameshwara tweeted: “Development and our environment are two sides of the same coin. As our population grows, finding a balance between both is a vital question that our city needs to address today. I urge citizens to not pay heed to rumours. There is a greater need for us to
join hands and come together to address issues plaguing
our city. This is our responsibility as the citizens of Bengaluru.”

He further tweeted, “CM of Karnataka and I have repeatedly maintained that no decision will be taken without public consultation. Once the project report is ready, it will be on the public domain for your feedback and suggestions. The Government of Karnataka is focused and transparent in its efforts to build support for a truly multi-modal transport and mobility solution for Bengaluru.”