Karnataka HC Issues Notice Over Footpath Encroachment in T Dasarahalli

The High Court of Karnataka on Monday issued notices to the state government and civic agencies in response to a public interest litigation seeking action against unauthorised street vendors blocking footpaths along the Tumakuru-Bengaluru service road from T Dasarahalli to Jalahalli Cross.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice KS Hemalekha passed the order after hearing a petition filed by the T Dasarahalli NH-4 Citizens and Residents’ Welfare Association. Notices were issued to the state government, the commissioner of Bengaluru North City Corporation, the National Highways Authority of India, and the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation.

The petitioners stated that pedestrians face severe inconvenience due to the encroachment of footpaths along the stretch, which forces people onto the road and causes frequent traffic congestion.

According to the association, the illegal blocking of parts of the service road by street vendors regularly traps school buses, ambulances, and other commuters in traffic jams. Students and employees struggle daily to reach their schools and offices on time as a result.

The welfare association urged the court to direct the state government and the corporation to act on a representation submitted on March 2, which formally requested authorities to clear the footpath encroachments.