Footpath upgradation drive slows down

Footpath upgradation drive slows down
Deccan Herald

With no work and lots of festivities at the BMP, on account of the annual two-day Kempegowda celebrations, the fast-track footpath upgradation drive, announced by the new BMP Commissioner K Jairaj on Saturday, has become a non-starter.

According to sources, the first report of footpath restoration works, that will be taken up in all the 100 wards in the City, must be submitted on May 17. However, there was no sign of work at any of the footpaths on Monday, as the holiday mood took over in all the BMP divisions.

The Commissioner said he will personally review the reports, that will have to be submitted weekly, till the deadline date of June 6.

Vendors spared

Mr Jairaj clarified that the drive is only aimed at the restoration of broken footpaths and removal of debris, and not against vendors.

“We have to look at providing vendors an alternative site before we remove them. This is not our priority for now. We will let the vendors remain. Our objective is to remove obstructions on the footpaths and make it pedestrian-friendly,” he said.

He added that the works will be taken up at the earliest, irrespective of the ongoing Kempegowda celebrations.