Beneath vibrant look, Rajaji Nagar faces several issues

Bengaluru, NT Bureau: Rajaji Nagar, ward number 99 under the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), is a wellestablished locality in Bengaluru, blending residential and commercial spaces seamlessly.

However, this vibrant area faces numerous issues that significantly impact the daily lives of its residents.

Among these, the most pressing concerns are tree falls during monsoons, garbage mismanagement, clogged drains, inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, and pothole-ridden roads. The monsoon season has brought back the 'rain pain' for residents of Bengaluru, including Rajaji Nagar.

The BBMP is responsible for removing trees that are loose or prone to uprooting, but their inaction despite having several months to do the work has led to numerous incidents of trees falling.

Residents allege that the problem is exacerbated when fallen trees drag down birds' nests and wires, posing a severe electrocution risk to both animals and humans.

Moreover, the combination of waterlogging after rains and fallen trees makes commuting an extremely difficult and hazardous task.

"We have seen multiple trees fall in just one monsoon season, and each time it is a gamble with our safety," says a long-time resident. "It's not just the inconvenience, but the potential danger that worries us."

Garbage disposal remains a chronic issue in Rajaji Nagar for several years now. While BBMP workers claim that they take several measures to remove and collect garbage regularly, the reality proves otherwise.

Many commercial establishments and residents discard their garbage at street corners. During rains, this garbage flows into the drains, clogging them and leading to further waterlogging issues.

This cycle of poor waste management and resulting drainage problems continues unabated, much to the frustration of the local populace.

One of the most severe consequences of improper garbage disposal is clogged drains. Plastic covers, dry leaves, and debris accumulate, making it impossible for water to recede during rains.

A rajakaluve (stormwater drain) flows through the area, but it is often filled with garbage and sewage water, which overflows onto the roads. This not only creates an unpleasant environment but also poses significant health hazards.

"The rajakaluve overflowing is a regular sight after every rain. It’s like we are living in a permanent state of monsoon flooding," complains another resident.

"The BBMP needs to take immediate action to clean and maintain the drains." Rajaji Nagar, despite being home to prominent locations like Orion Mall, ISKCON Temple, Lulu Mall, and prestigious schools such as Orchids International School and National Public School, lacks proper pedestrian infrastructure.

The sidewalks are broken and poorly maintained, forcing pedestrians to walk on the roads amidst traffic. This situation is highly inconvenient and dangerous, especially for school children and the elderly.

Adding to the woes of Rajaji Nagar’s residents are the pothole-ridden roads. The condition of the streets worsens during the rainy season, with waterlogging turning potholes into hidden traps for vehicles and pedestrians alike.

The BBMP's slow response to repairing these roads further aggravates the problem, making commuting a daunting experience. The persistent issues of tree falls, garbage mismanagement clogged drains, inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, and potholeridden roads have cast a shadow on an otherwise char ming locality.

The BBMP needs to address these problems urgently to improve the quality of life for its residents and restore Rajaji Nagar to its rightful status as one of Bengaluru’s prime areas.