Infra woes plague Pulikeshi Nagar: From old roads to vanishing green spaces

This Bengaluru ward grapples with pressing issues of roads, water, drainage and green spaces

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru

Pulikeshi Nagar, located in the northeast of Bangalore, is a vibrant and culturally rich constituency. Known for its diversity, it houses people from various linguistic and religious backgrounds, alongside a mix of residential areas, commercial zones, and defence establishments. Despite its cultural wealth and status as one of the bettermaintained wards in the city, Pulikeshi Nagar faces several pressing issues that affect its residents' quality of life. These challenges, ranging from poor infrastructure to environmental concerns, require urgent attention.

Breakdown of the issue: One of the pressing issues is the deteriorating state of roads. Many streets are riddled with potholes and uneven surfaces, creating significant inconvenience for commuters. "The roads here are in such poor condition that driving is like navigating an obstacle course," said a local shop owner. The problem worsens during the monsoon season, posing serious risks to motorists and pedestrians. Irregular water supply is another ongoing concern. Many households are forced to rely on private water tankers, especially during summer. A resident, shared, "Every summer, we spend thousands on water tankers. It is financially draining." The ward’s drainage infrastructure is outdated and unable to handle heavy rainfall.

This leads to frequent waterlogging and flooding in low-lying parts of the ward. Inefficient garbage collection and disposal exacerbate sanitation issues. Streets in commercial zones often pile up with uncollected waste. "Garbage left on the streets not only smells but also invites pests, making it unbearable," said a longtime resident. This problem impacts the ward's overall cleanliness and public health. Rapid urbanisation has led to a decline in the ward’s green spaces. The expansion of commercial and residential properties has resulted in the loss of trees and open areas. "We’re losing the lung spaces that make our neighbourhood livable," lamented the longtime resident.

Impact on the community: These issues collectively diminish the quality of life in Pulikeshi Nagar. Poor road conditions and traffic congestion make daily commutes frustrating and unsafe, while the lack of adequate drainage leads to seasonal flooding, causing property damage and health hazards. Water scarcity affects families on a fundamental level, disrupting essential activities and adding financial stress. The inefficient garbage management system impacts hygiene and contributes to an unpleasant living environment.

Meanwhile, the loss of green spaces not only depletes air quality but also reduces opportunities for community bonding in recreational areas. Addressing these challenges requires immediate attention from local authorities, along with active participation from residents. Pulikeshi Nagar’s potential to thrive as a vibrant and livable community depends on finding sustainable solutions to these pressing problems.

Potential solutions: To address these challenges, an approach involving both local authorities and community participation is needed. When News Trail tried to contact the BBMP chief engineer of the East Zone there was no response from them. Pulikeshi Nagar needs urgent infrastructure improvements to ensure better living conditions. Roads must be repaired, potholes filled, and drainage systems upgraded to prevent flooding. Reliable water supply infrastructure is crucial to reduce dependency on private tankers, with rainwater harvesting as a sustainable solution.

Effective waste management, including regular collection and recycling campaigns, can enhance cleanliness. Traffic congestion can be eased through improved public transport and bicycle lanes. Preserving and expanding green spaces is vital for environmental health and community well-being. Collaborative efforts between local authorities and residents can address these issues, creating a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable neighbourhood.