Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced the ongoing operation to clear encroachments on footpaths in all five city corporations under the Greater Bengaluru Authority. Nearly 9,900 encroachments have been removed since July 1, with the Chief Minister emphasizing the involvement of a mafia in these activities.
Inspecting the clearance drive with Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, Chief Minister Shivakumar revealed that 435 km of footpaths have been cleared, eliminating a total of 9,878 encroachments. The operation is set to persist across all city corporations, with 1,340 permanent shops and around 1,800 pushcarts already removed.
Authorities have also taken down 2,267 metal sheets, 2,300 unauthorized steps and ramps, 2,662 pillars and signboards, and 2,247 sheds encroaching on footpaths. The Chief Minister assured that debris generated during the operation is being cleared, and damaged footpaths are being repaired simultaneously.
Addressing concerns about street vendors, Shivakumar affirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding their livelihoods while ensuring public convenience. He mentioned plans to restart the issuance of identity cards to vendors and designate vending zones for their business activities.
