JOIN USSubways become haven for hawkers, pickpockets
The Majestic subway that connects the bus stand and the Bengaluru City railway station has been converted into a den of hawkers.
Vendors loudly advertise their wares at the numerous little ‘shops’ in the crowded passage. Praveen Rao, a commuter, who regularly uses the subway, said, “These people have occupied the space to sell their products, thanks to the police and other government authorities who look the other way. It is very difficult for people to move around. Authorities should ensure people have free space to walk around in a subway.”
The very purpose of the subway, to allow people to safely cross the busy junction, has been defeated, rued another commuter. The products sold range from electronic goods, toys, books, apparels, stationery, to edibles, among other things.
This crowded ‘market’ has also become a haven for pickpockets and other anti-social elements.The situation has become so menacing that many people, especially women, find it unsafe to use the pedestrian subway and prefer crossing the road instead.
At the KR Market, the awful stench of urine hangs heavily in the air throughout the dark underground passage, while the walls are stained with red and orange ‘paan’ stains. However, some people go there to purchase items at cheaper rates from vendors who have encroached upon the space.
On the other hand, many people still do not use the subway to cross the road due to the unbearable stench of urine, even though the passage is free of garbage and dirt. The subway on N R Road is also hardly used by pedestrians. It lacks proper lighting, making it unsafe for many, especially women.