Transformers hog footpaths

Transformers hog footpaths
Vijay Times

"No gardens on footpath. No dumping of construction materials on footpaths" This is the recent BMP mantra. But what about Bescom transformers that are commonly found on footpaths? Well, pedestrians allege Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BMP) has turned a blind eye even as such transformers are found on footpaths of several busy roads in the City, often obstructing pedestrian movement, forcing the pedestrians, including school children to walk on the roads.

Akbar Ali, a resident of Jayanagar, said he was once knocked down by a scooter after being forced to use the road as the transformer obstructed his way on the footpath.

On Tuesday last, residents of Subramanyanagar prevented Bescom officials from installing a transformer on 6th Main, near Visvesvaraya Cooperative Bank and staged a dharna.

BMP commissioner K Jairaj says "When gardens maintained by owners of independent houses on footpaths, amount to encroachment. Then why are Bescom transformers allowed to stay?" BMP officials said "there are norms that Bescom must consult the BMP staff before installing transformers, but very rarely is it done." But Vasanth Kumar, Director (Technical), Bescom, has a different story to tell. He says "as per the Telegraphic Act, we can set up transformers, electric poles or lines anywhere. There is no need for permission because we know how best we can serve the public by selecting a particular route."