White topping works hamper traffic flow

Kumar ML | NT

Bengaluru: The ongoing white topping work in Nagarabhavi is obstructing the smooth flow of traffic in the vicinity, affecting residents and businesses nearby. A stretch of around one kilometre from the Ambedkar College circle till Nimoorathindi restaurant is being concretised.

While the road is narrow and the divider installed slows down traffic, it gets nightmarish for motorists during peak hours. In addition, street vendors, vegetable shops and restaurants have propped up along the pathways made for pedestrians, forcing walkers onto the road.

About a month ago, Horticulture Minister Muniratna launched the project of whitetopping, and the locals complain that it is moving at a snail's pace. Hawkers in the vicinity have had to shut shop temporarily due to the dust and debris, and those who chose to stay open witness less footfall and are experiencing losses.

Rajesh, a vegetable seller said, “The dust is keepi ng a l l my customers away. I request the authorities to complete the work at the earliest.” "Due to the white topping as well as the encroachments of the footpaths, there is no space for our customers to park. We're witnessing low footfalls,” said Mamata, a cashier at Bisi Thindi.

While the minister has promised that the project will be completed in six months, around the time for assembly elections, the local residents are sceptical. "The minister has already directed to finish the work by elections and we are taking immediate actions to do the same," said Venkatesh, executive engineer, BBMP.

Gateway to Bengaluru Citizens of various areas, especially the outskirts of the city such as Kengeri, Ullal, Sunkadakatte , Gnanabharathi, Nayandahalli use this particular road to enter Bengaluru from neighbouring districts.

Along with this, passengers coming from Mysuru, Mandya often reach Vijayanagar via Kengeri, Nagarbavi and from there proceed towards Majestic, and it ensures bumper-tobumper traffic during the day.