Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has extended the clearance drive against footpath encroachments to all five city corporations under the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA). Nearly 9,900 encroachments have been removed since July 1, with 435 km of footpaths cleared.
During an inspection with Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, the Chief Minister announced the removal of 1,340 permanent shops, 1,800 pushcarts, metal sheets, unauthorised structures, and sheds encroaching on footpaths. The operation aims to ensure public convenience while protecting street vendors’ livelihoods.
Shivakumar emphasized the need to maintain clear footpaths for pedestrian safety, citing over 900 pedestrian deaths in Bengaluru in the past three years. He assured that suitable locations would be identified for street vendors to conduct business without obstructing public spaces.
The Chief Minister also addressed the issue of the underground market at Vijayanagar and the pending redevelopment of the Jayanagar Market, promising to consider appropriate measures and schemes for better civic amenities.
