Wares from big shops occupy footpaths, while small vendors fear eviction in Shivajinagar
Despite government-led footpath clearance drives in Bengaluru, commercial establishments in Shivajinagar continue to encroach on walkways, forcing pedestrians onto busy roads. Small vendors express concern that they are being unfairly targeted for eviction while larger shops remain unchecked.
Why it matters
This highlights the ongoing struggle between urban development, pedestrian safety, and the livelihoods of small-scale street vendors in rapidly growing metropolitan areas.
The footpath clearance drives across the city, following directions from Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, appear to have changed little on the ground, with commercial establishments continuing to use footpaths for business.
In Shivajinagar, the footpath along Lady Curzon Road was cleared amidst chaos and high drama after private persons assaulted Central Corporation officials overseeing the clearance. Mr. Gowda had said it would not hamper their drive, prompting Central Corporation Commissioner G. Jagadeesha to visit the spot and oversee the drive personally.
Now, just 50 metres away from Lady Curzon Road, the footpaths along the busy Central Street are nearly impossible to access as furniture shops have encroached upon the walkway, placing chairs, tables, bean bags and other furniture on the footpath.
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