BU likely to ban vehicle movement inside campus

Facing a big spike in traffic movement, the Bangalore University (BU) is likely to ban vehicular movement inside the Jnanabharathi campus, a decision the management of the university had implemented in 2017.

The campus road is the fastest connecting route between Mysuru Road to Ullal Satellite town and Nagarbhavi to Ullal Satellite town. This has led to an increase in vehicular movement, which has become a nightmare for students and faculties inside the campus.

Noticing the rise in vehicles, in 2017, then BU Registrar Ninge Gowda had banned the entry of private vehicles in the campus. But it was lifted once Gowda’s term ended.

“The ban inside the campus was effectively implemented during Ninge Gowda’s term. But soon after his exit, it was removed. Since the road reduces the journey time, many people prefer taking this road,” a senior BU official told DH.

But the official said implementing the ban won’t be that easy due to political pressure the management will have to face over imposing vehicular curbs.

Recently, an unidentified, decomposed body was found near the Gandhi Bhavan, highlighting the risks of allowing unrestricted access into the campus. Students and faculty have also requested the management to completely ban vehicular movement. Taking the issue seriously, the BU will hold a meeting with the traffic department to decide on the action plan.

“Putting a complete ban on private vehicles will play havoc with the traffic movement in surrounding areas. There are also some roads developed by the BBMP, which we cannot claim. So imposing a complete ban is likely not possible. Of course, inside roads can be closed,” BU Registrar BK Ravi told DH.

Vehicular movement on roads connecting Gandhi Bhavan, Sports Authority of India (SAI) and other departments is likely to be banned.

Following the recent incident where a pet dog belonging to one of the walkers killed a peacock on the campus, the BU is also considering to ban pet dogs inside the campus. Students, faculties and home guards have requested the Vice-Chancellor to restrict the entry of pets and vehicles inside the campus.

“The resolution on the same will be passed soon,” senior official from BU told DH.