Rajajinagar residents demand action by civic body

Persistent issues of tree falls, waterlogging & waste mismanagement plague Rajajinagar, leaving residents frustrated and demanding swift solutions

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru

Rajajinagar, Ward 99, a bustling area in Bengaluru known for its mix of residential zones, commercial spaces, and iconic landmarks, continues to grapple with long-standing civic issues. These problems, first highlighted back in April, persist today despite persistent complaints to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). The failure to address these concerns has left residents feeling disillusioned and frustrated.

Problem at hand: Monsoons have only exacerbated the dangers of tree falls. Residents have witnessed several incidents where large trees, weakened by heavy rains, have toppled over, taking down power lines and posing serious risks of electrocution. “Every monsoon, we fear the worst. Trees collapse, and with them, power lines snap. It’s a disaster waiting to happen,” expressed a worried resident. Despite having ample time for preventive pruning ahead of the rains, the BBMP's inaction has drawn sharp criticism. “We have been raising concerns for months, but no steps have been taken to trim these trees,” another resident lamented. Overflowing garbage bins and poorly managed waste disposal are chronic issues in Rajajinagar.

During rains, these garbage piles obstruct drainage systems, causing severe waterlogging. The rajakaluve (stormwater drain) running through the ward often overflows, mixing debris and sewage and creating an unbearable stench. “The waterlogging and filth after every downpour are intolerable. Despite the BBMP’s claims of cleaning the drains, the results are clearly inadequate,” said a local resident. This stagnant water has also become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, raising health concerns about diseases such as dengue and malaria. Pedestrian safety remains a significant challenge due to broken sidewalks cluttered with debris, forcing people to walk on busy roads. This situation is particularly dangerous for children and the elderly. “It’s terrifying to navigate these streets, especially for school kids and older residents. The authorities need to act swiftly,” said a parent from National Public School.

The condition of roads further compounds the issue. Potholes, often hidden underwater, turn commuting into a perilous activity. One notable example is a road outside a prominent educational institute in the ward, which was dug up earlier this year for maintenance but never properly repaired. This uneven, waterlogged stretch poses serious risks to daily commuters. “We’ve repeatedly requested the BBMP to fix this road. The temporary patchwork repairs have only made matters worse,” remarked a faculty member from the institute.

The consequences: The persistence of these civic issues has taken a toll on the residents' quality of life. Safety concerns are at an all-time high, with tree falls, electrocution risks and hazardous commuting conditions threatening the well-being of the community. Waterlogging and garbage mismanagement have also led to potential health hazards, such as mosquito-borne diseases. Moreover, the inconveniences caused by broken sidewalks and dangerous roads have made everyday activities, such as walking to school or commuting to work, an ordeal. The frustration among residents is palpable, as they feel neglected and unheard by the authorities.

Proposed remedies: Residents demand urgent action and accountability from the BBMP to address tree falls, garbage mismanagement, and hazardous roads in Rajajinagar. Proactive tree pruning, regular inspections, and timely trimming are essential to reduce risks during monsoons. Improving waste management and unclogging drains can prevent waterlogging while repairing potholes and rebuilding sidewalks will enhance pedestrian safety.

Prioritising areas near schools and hospitals is critical. Residents also seek greater community involvement and transparency, urging regular meetings with civic authorities to ensure accountability and sustainable solutions.