Ward 147 reels under poor roads, garbage, water woes

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Adugodi, designated as Ward 147, is a vibrant locality in the southern part of Bengaluru, falling under the BTM Layout assembly constituency. The ward is a mix of residential and commercial spaces, reflecting the city's rapid urbanisation. However, like many parts of Bengaluru, Adugodi faces several pressing civic issues that continue to affect the daily lives of its residents.

Civic woes: One of the major problems in Adugodi is its deteriorating road conditions. Potholes and uneven surfaces make commuting difficult for both motorists and pedestrians.

"The roads here are in terrible shape. Every time it rains, the potholes fill up with water, making it even more dangerous for two-wheeler riders," said Kumaran, who lives in the area for over a decade. Another persistent issue is improper garbage disposal. Piles of waste accumulate on streets due to irregular collection, causing health hazards and environmental concerns. "Despite repeated complaints to the BBMP, garbage remains uncollected for days in some areas. This leads to foul smell and attracts stray animals, worsening the situation," said Anitha Rao, a shopkeeper in Adugodi.

Impact on community: Water scarcity is another pressing concern, especially during the peak summer months. Many households in Adugodi struggle with irregular water supplies, forcing residents to depend on private tankers. "Water shortage is a recurring issue. Last year was a nightmare for us. I paid more than Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 weekly for water, and I am sure that is going to be the same this year," said Rajkumaran, a resident of a local apartment complex. Adding to the woes, stray cattle roaming on streets frequently disrupt traffic flow, leading to congestion and accidents.

"Cattle wandering on the middle of the road is a daily problem. It slows down traffic and creates chaos, particularly during peak hours," said an autorickshaw driver, who often navigates these roads. Broken and poorly maintained sidewalks further add to the safety concerns of pedestrians. Elderly residents and children struggle to navigate the uneven footpaths.

"Walking on these footpaths is risky. They are either broken or encroached upon, forcing us to walk on the road," said Anjali, a homemaker. The locality also suffers from inadequate stormwater drainage system. During heavy rains, roads get flooded due to clogged drains, making movement difficult. "The waterlogging is so severe that sometimes we can't step out of our homes," complained Shruti, a college student from this area.

Call for immediate action: While Adugodi remains a bustling locality, these recurring civic problems highlight the urgent need for intervention from the authorities. Residents hope that the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) will take immediate steps to address these issues and improve the quality of life in Ward 147.