Rough path for a smooth ride

The roads proposed to get this makeover are NGEF, CMH Road, K R Road, Kanakapura Road, R V Road, Mysore Road between Nayandahalli and BHEL Junction, West of Chord Road, Swami Vivekananda Road between Adarsha Junction and Trinity Circle and others. But Bangaloreans will have to wait for this.

The BBMP earlier had proposed to undertake construction of ‘White-topped roads’. But months have passed and nothing has materialised.

K T Nagaraj, Superintendent Engineer (Major Roads) says, “We have just finished inspection of Reach 1. Now a decision has to be taken with all the stakeholders about who will bear the costs. But we will surely start the restoration work soon.”

This initiative will bring respite to many after causing hardship to a lot of commuters with dug roads and mounds of debris due to the ongoing Metro work. But this should be done only once Phase 1 is permanently completed.

Says Rakesh, a working professional, “The roads are in bad shape due to the Metro work. So this move by the Government is really good. But as we all know, the Palike is not known to keep  the deadlines. It is better if they wait till the completion of the Metro and then start this road work.”

Even Sharda agrees, “Time is the major concern. If they can finish it as early as possible, it is alright. Otherwise, it is just going to increase the connectivity problems.” And what will cause inconvenience to a lot of people are the many road diversions that will be implemented.

Rakesh adds, “There should be provisions for alternative roads which are close enough, so that it doesn’t cause major hassle to the commuters as well as the pedestrians.”  
While they undertake the road development work, they should also take into consideration the crumbling infrastructure that is a cause of concern in various parts of the City.

Says Sharda, “At many places, the sewage pipes and water lines are ruptured. So they should fix these problems first and then go ahead with any work.”

But for some, patience is a virtue as you need to think about the long-term benefits.
Says Sagar, “I know in the beginning, we are going to face a lot of problems like traffic jam but eventually it is going to be for a good purpose. Having good roads and footpaths is a necessity and the Government should act on this on priority basis.”