JOIN USFootpaths and traffic issues plague Jayanagar
Encroachment of footpaths and high-density traffic are some of the problems that cripple the residents in Jayanagar constituency. Citizens participated in large numbers in the ‘Janaspandana-Citizens for Change’, a civic grievance redressal programme organised by Deccan Herald and Prajavani on Saturday, to share their plight.
Jayanagar MLA Sowmya Reddy, along with corporators, officials from BBMP, BWSSB, BMRCL and police officials heard the grievances at the programme held at GNR Kalyana Mantapa, Jayanagar 5th Block and promised to solve them.
The residents, especially senior citizens, complained of footpath encroachments and damage. Muthuraja from Shakambari Nagar said, “Vehicles have been parked on the footpath blocking the entry to a park in Sarakki ward. Further, an unauthorised shop is also operating on the footpath further blocking pedestrian movement.”
“The shop has been provided electricity supply as well, how can Bescom provide electricity to an illegal shop? he questioned.
Speaking about the illegal parking on the footpath, Fakhrudin, an inspector from Jayanagar traffic police station, said, “We will tow this vehicle and put up barricades with BBMP’s support to avoid illegal parking.”
Nagaraj, assistant executive engineer of Bescom, said, “We will check the licence and the NOC of the shop on the footpath. If rules have not been followed we will immediately cut the power supply.”
Though dotted with landmark lung spaces with parks and trees, the Jayanagar Assembly segment faces plenty of problems. Suman, a resident of Jayanagar T Block, said, “Many people dump garbage under the trees leading to black spots. The BBMP has not pruned the trees to avoid the branches from falling.”
MLA Sowmya replied, “We have a mission to make Kasa Muktha (garbage free) Jayanagar. We request people not to dump garbage on roads especially under trees. BBMP should clear these spots.”
Construction work for the metro near Rashtreeya Vidyalaya Road metro station has also blocked the footpath for the pedestrians. “The work on the metro has been going on there for the last six months. With the footpath being encroached by BMRCL many pedestrians have met with accidents on this stretch,” said Balaji Nandagopal, a resident of Pattabhi Ram Nagar.
Sadashiva, BMRCL Engineer, responded, “I will direct the on-spot officials to start work on the footpath and in one month we will construct it.”
Jayanagar, which was one of the first planned residential neighbourhoods in the city, is now facing the threat of illegal commercialisation. Jayatheertha, a resident of JP Nagar 2nd stage, said, “There are many illegal bars and pubs coming up in the neighborhood. On the 19th main road 15th cross, three bars and restaurants operate in one building. I wonder how authorities can give permission to three bars in one building. Many people drink and fight near residential areas, disturbing the neighborhood.”
Nanjegowda, a police official, promised CCTVs will be installed in this area. “If any disturbing events happen in the area, please call the police. We will come to the spot and take appropriate legal action.”
Fathima Shafkath, a resident of Jayanagar 4th block, said, “Despite having a bus stop near Carmel Convent buses do not stop there. The condition of the bus shelter is also bad as there is no proper seating arrangement. The bus stops should have a board with a timetable of the buses to help passengers.”
Sowmya promised that she will talk to BMTC officials and take action to make sure buses do not miss the passengers.