Narrow roads, diverse establishments contribute to congestion at Lakkasandra

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: Situated in the southern part of Bengaluru, Lakkasandra falls under BBMP ward 146, emerging as a significant locality in the city.

This area showcases a harmonious blend of residential spaces and prominent health and educational institutions, establishing itself as a major hub within Bengaluru.

Over time, Lakkasandra has evolved into a welldeveloped neighbourhood, offering a diverse range of amenities to its residents.

The presence of substantial healthcare and educational facilities contributes to the area's prominence, making it an integral part of the city's landscape.

The narrow roads, combined with a growing population and proximity to main routes, create a gridlock that tests the patience of both residents and commuters.

Temples, mosques, shops, and markets coexist in these confined spaces, worsening the congestion, and turning some roads into mazes during peak hours.

The daily struggle with crowded streets and limited space impacts the quality of life for those in the area.

It's a constant challenge for both locals and visitors, as navigating through the tight quarters becomes a frustrating routine in the bustling neighbourhood of Lakkasandra.

A street vendor in the street said, “During peak hours makes it difficult for customers to navigate the area, impacting foot traffic and sales. The maze-like roads during busy times make it hard for customers to locate my stall easily.”

The traffic troubles in Lakkasandra are amplified by the presence of major medical institutions, notably NIMHANS and the KIDWAI Institute of Cancer.

While these facilities provide crucial healthcare services to the community, the substantial number of vehicles they draw in contributes to the overall congestion.

Despite the existence of a well-connected public transport system, the sheer volume of vehicles during peak hours remains a persistent inconvenience for many.

Balancing the necessity of accessible healthcare with the need to alleviate traffic challenges poses an ongoing dilemma in Lakkasandra, impacting the daily lives of residents and commuters alike.

The skywalk foot-over bridge in Lakkasandra is in a sorry state, with its deteriorating condition causing significant problems for pedestrians.

Adding to the predicament, the lift, intended to assist individuals with limited mobility, is nonfunctional, exacerbating the challenges for patients and residents.

Crossing the road has become a nightmare, especially for those with health concerns who rely on the foot-over bridge for a safer passage. A passerby commented, “The bridge has become a target for those indulging in the habit of spitting paan, leading to unsightly stains and unhygienic conditions.

"The presence of garbage further mars the surroundings, making the foot over the bridge less than welcoming. Moreover, the stairs and handles are rusting compromising structural integrity.”

Public transportation, while available through buses, grapples with its own set of challenges. The absence of metro connectivity in the area and irregular bus schedules create difficulties for daily commuters.

During peak hours, scenes of crowds waiting at bus stops, spilling onto sidewalks, and even encroaching on the roads are not uncommon, illustrating the need for enhanced public transport infrastructure.

Scarce parking spaces in residential and commercial areas worsen congestion, as vehicles cram narrow lanes.

Locals face inconvenience, and emergency services and delivery vehicles encounter challenges due to the constrained parking situation.