Old area, new problems: Cottonpete hit by traffic chaos, poor sanitation

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru

Cottonpete, BBMP Ward 120, is one of Bengaluru's oldest and most vibrant commercial hubs, well-known for its wholesale markets, including the famous Cottonpet Market. Though the area has evolved over time, blending traditional businesses with modern establishments, it continues to grapple with a number of persistent issues. 

A breakdown of the issue; Cottonpete’s narrow lanes and colonial-era architecture add charm but also bring forward challenges in infrastructure and urban planning. One of the pressing issues in Cottonpete Ward No. 120 is irregular garbage collection, leading frustrated residents to resort to dropping off their waste on the roadside. The surge in population over the past decade especially in the slum inside the area has exacerbated the problem, leaving residents and collectors struggling to cope. A resident giving an example said, “Imagine if 10 years ago, there were only 10 residents and 5 garbage collectors in the area. Now, with a population of 100 people, the number of garbage collectors remains the same, posing a challenge for both residents and collectors." He added, "The BBMP needs to deploy more garbage collectors to match the growing population.” The stormwater drain in the area is filled with solid waste and silt which has made the water unclean and stagnant. The flow of water through the drain is completely blocked now. This has resulted in residents becoming victims of several diseases and having no access to clean drinking water.

The consequences; The overwhelming population growth is putting a strain on local systems, highlighting the need for a more robust response from the authorities. Talking to News Trail, a redient of the slum said, “We have been living in substandard matchbox-like rooms for decades and do not even have access to basic needs.” He also added, “Having a toilet inside one’s house is a luxury here, that is the situation here.” Traffic congestion is another major concern in Cottonpete. The narrow lanes, compounded by heavy vehicular traffic, make it difficult to navigate, especially during peak hours. The congestion hinders the smooth movement of both pedestrians and vehicles, causing delays and inefficiencies in the delivery of goods. Another pressing issue in this ward is the inadequate infrastructure. The stormwater drain system is clogged with silt and solid waste, which has made water flow through the drain completely blocked. This lack of proper drainage causes severe waterlogging during the monsoons, as the area lies in a low-lying region. The stagnant water, filled with waste, has become a breeding ground for diseases and poses significant health risks to the residents. The lack of clean public toilets in Cottonpete exacerbates sanitation issues, causing inconvenience and health risks. Residents and visitors often struggle to find basic facilities, impacting hygiene and overall public health. The area also struggles with inadequate street lighting, which contributes to safety concerns, especially in the evenings. Poor visibility on streets, combined with narrow lanes, increases the risk of accidents, both for pedestrians and vehicles. “The lack of proper street lighting is a real concern,” says resident Sudhir Kumar. “It's not just about visibility; it's about safety. We fear accidents every time we step out after dark.”

Possible remedies; To address overcrowding and strain on services, Cottonpete residents urge the BBMP to improve waste management infrastructure by increasing garbage collectors and creating more efficient routes. They also call for designated waste disposal zones for vendors and households. Improving the stormwater drainage system is critical to reduce waterlogging, clear silt and waste, and prevent flooding during the monsoon season. Expanding street lighting in poorly lit areas will enhance public safety. Creating more green spaces, such as parks or rooftop gardens, would improve air quality and provide recreational areas for residents.