Bengaluru Allocates Rs 70 Crore for Safe Footpath Campaign Starting July 1

The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) and the Bengaluru city traffic police will launch a 'Safe Footpath Campaign' from July 1 to July 10 across a 2,000 km road network in Bengaluru to repair pedestrian paths, clear encroachments, and stop illegal vehicle parking.

Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda announced the initiative on Wednesday following a joint meeting with civic and traffic officials to address pedestrian safety in the city.

The state government has allocated Rs 70 crore exclusively for the repair and level correction of existing footpaths. Minister Gowda clarified that these funds will be used solely for maintaining existing pedestrian paths rather than constructing any new pedestrian ways.

As part of the drive, the authorities will target illegal parking on pedestrian ways. Gowda warned that any vehicles found parked on footpaths will be towed away, reiterating that the Supreme Court has recognized the right to walk on a footpath as a fundamental right of every citizen.

The campaign aims to address a critical safety issue in Bengaluru, where pedestrians account for 30 per cent of all road accident deaths, according to traffic police data.

Commercial establishments have been directed to remove signboards and other encroachments from footpaths before the campaign begins. Establishments have until June 30 to clear these obstructions. If they fail to do so, the corporation will remove the encroachments and impose heavy penalties.

The 'Safe Footpath Campaign' follows the '#1KmChallenge' initiative held this month, which encourages residents to walk for trips under one kilometre instead of using motorised vehicles.

In addition to footpath repairs, the minister directed GBA officials to address road maintenance issues. Officials must fill potholes scientifically using the box-cutting method, which involves cutting the affected area, filling it with gravel, and tarring it to match the road surface. Gowda also instructed officials to remove unnecessary speed breakers near signals and ensure no buses or other vehicles stop within 75 metres of traffic signals.