Bengaluru, June 24: The Karnataka government is set to launch the ‘Safe Footpath Campaign’ in Bengaluru on July 1. Announced by Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, the initiative aims to clear encroachments from footpaths on major roads, ensuring safe passage for pedestrians.
During a media briefing following a review meeting on footpath encroachments and repair work, the minister stated that shopkeepers will have the opportunity to voluntarily remove their goods, boards, and other obstructions from footpaths by July 1. After this date, local authorities will take action to remove the encroachments and impose heavy fines as per the regulations.
The minister emphasized that the Supreme Court has affirmed that walking on footpaths is a fundamental right for every citizen, directing local bodies to ensure this right is upheld. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has also instructed strict measures in this regard.
According to the minister, Bengaluru has a road network of approximately 13,000 kilometers. The first phase of the campaign will focus on about 2,000 kilometers of major and sub-major roads, where all obstacles hindering pedestrian movement will be removed on a mission mode.
Krishna Byre Gowda remarked that footpaths are public property for nearly 15 million citizens of the city, and commercial activities should only occur within the confines of shops. Action will also be taken against vehicles parked on footpaths, which will be towed without any leniency.
The government has decided to launch a campaign against abandoned vehicles parked along the roads. Starting July 1, notice stickers will be placed on such vehicles, giving owners seven days to respond. After this period, from July 10, the vehicles will be removed and seized, with auction processes initiated if necessary.
An allocation of ₹70 crore has been made for the repair and improvement of approximately 2,000 kilometers of footpaths across five municipal units in the city. This funding will address issues such as slabs, curb stones, height discrepancies, and other basic problems.
From July 1, street vendors will not be allowed to operate with carts and stalls on the footpaths of major and sub-major roads. Violators will have their stalls confiscated and face fines. Street vending will only be permitted in designated and approved areas.
The minister directed officials to repair road potholes using a scientific box-cutting method, filling the holes with jelly aggregate and asphalt to level the road surface. Emphasis was also placed on using modern machinery and equipment.
The government has prioritized road repair work around traffic signals and major intersections. Additionally, no bus or other vehicle will be allowed to stop or park within 75 meters of a traffic signal. Necessary orders will be issued in coordination with traffic police regarding this matter.
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