Wilson Garden struggles with traffic woes & poor infrastructure

NT Bengaluru: Bengaluru’s Ward 145 in Wilson Garden, known for its vibrant atmosphere and historical charm, is both a commercial and residential hub. Its central location offers easy access to major roads, public transportation and metro stations, making it a desirable area for residents and businesses alike. However, with its increasing population and development, the ward faces several pressing issues that affect the community's daily life.

The problem at hand; One of the most visible problems in Ward 145 is traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The area’s proximity to important landmarks, especially the Shanti Nagar Bus Terminus, combined with the growing number of private bus operators and other vehicles, create bottlenecks that disrupt both residential and commercial activities. According to a private bus driver who operates in the area, “Getting through Wilson Garden during rush hour is a nightmare. I lose a lot of time and fuel just waiting. It is hard to stay on schedule, especially during festive times.” “The rapid development of the neighbourhood has put immense pressure on its infrastructure,” said a vegetable cart owner. Roads, water supply and sewage systems are often unable to cope with the demands of the increasing population.

One of the major concerns is the polluted rajakaluve (stormwater drain) that runs through the area. The open drain poses health hazards due to stagnant water and mosquitoes. One resident said, “ WRI India created a pedestrian space around the rajkaluve, cleaned and painted the SWD, but the water is still extremely polluted and filled with debris and garbage.” Improper garbage management is another challenge residents of Ward 145 face daily. Piles of waste accumulate on the streets, attracting rodents and creating an unpleasant environment. With its central location, Ward 145 attracts a lot of vehicular traffic, leading to parking challenges, especially in commercial zones. The lack of designated parking spaces means that vehicles often clog the already narrow roads, adding to congestion. This issue also affects local businesses, as customers struggle to find places to park, discouraging them from visiting the area.

Potholes and poorly maintained footpaths are two of the most pressing issues significantly impacting daily safety. Rapid urbanisation and increased traffic have exacerbated the condition of the roads, resulting in a patchwork of potholes that pose hazards for drivers and pedestrians alike. Many of the roads in the area are riddled with deep potholes, making navigation challenging, especially for larger vehicles like buses and trucks.

The lack of safe pedestrian pathways exacerbates the risk of accidents and injuries, particularly for children and the elderly. Poorly maintained footpaths also discourage walking, which is essential for promoting a healthy lifestyle and reducing traffic congestion.

The impact on the community: These ongoing issues have a direct impact on the daily lives of the people who live and work in Wilson Garden. Residents frequently report the inconvenience of navigating through traffic or dealing with the effects of poor infrastructure and sanitation. Local business owners and workers are also bearing the brunt of these challenges. The traffic delays reduce efficiency for bus operators who depend on timely routes for their livelihood, while poor sanitation and garbage management affect the footfall in local businesses. For small shop owners like Shashank, this can significantly impact their daily earnings and sustainability.

A call to action: Addressing Ward 145's issues requires collaboration between BBMP and the community. Authorities must prioritise cleaning the polluted rajakaluve to prevent flooding, improve garbage collection, and implement awareness programs. To resolve traffic congestion, better road planning, regulation of commercial vehicle routes, and designated parking zones can help.