Advertisers, not pedestrians use skywalks

As many as 54 skywalks have been approved and have been called for Expression of Interest (EOI) from contractors, according to the Palike. But the harsh reality is that existing skywalks are barely used by the people and jay-walking continues to be the order.

Citizens believe that climbing stairs which are equivalent to two floors is a Herculean task. "It is extremely difficult for the physically weak, pregnant women, people suffering from blood pressure and breathing problems to climb the stairs to cross the distance of a few step," said Dr Malini, a frequent user of a skywalk on Old Airport Road.

Many believe that existing skywalks are widely used by advertisers than the common man. "These skywalks have become a revenue generating source for the civic authorities," said Krishna Yadav.

Dheeraj, a resident of Indiranagar said that instead of government spending lakhs of rupees in building skywalks, it can simply appoint a cop who will assist the pedestrians to cross the road.

Palike sources said new skywalks will have lift and escalator facilities to reduce the burden of climbing stairs for the users. Senior citizens feel that installing escalators alone will not help as the old people are hesitant to use the escalators.

"The government should have both lift and escalator since escalators are not a convenient mean for the elderly people," noted Rajeevalochan, a senior lecturer of Maharani’s College.

However, Bipin Rai observed tha civic authorities might install escalators and lifts but if they are not maintained appropriately, they are of no use.

The BBMP has stated that despite inviting tenders for all the 54 proposed skywalks, contractors have shown interest for only 13 of them.