Jurisdictional dispute stalls civic works, puts people at risk in south Bengaluru

Residents and commuters along the Rayasandra Circle–Choodasandra Circle stretch on the southern outskirts of Bengaluru are facing severe hardship as incomplete drain work and damaged roads have made daily travel unsafe and life-threatening.

Drain work has been left incomplete for several months, resulting in open trenches, severe road damage, and daily suffering for thousands of residents and commuters.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The misery doesn’t end there. It extends from Doddamara Road to Kodathi and from Rayasandra Circle to Gattahalli. Residents in the vicinity alleged that a jurisdictional dispute between the erstwhile Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the Shantipura Gram Panchayat had brought all developmental work to a standstill.

The situation, persisting for several months, has left thousands struggling to navigate open trenches and potholes on roads, with little sign of progress in repair or maintenance.

Suresh Nair, a resident of an apartment complex on Hosa Road, told The Hindu that the drain work, which began several months ago, has been left incomplete, leaving open trenches and piles of debris that pose a constant danger.

“The stretch near Mahaveer Ranches Apartment has become particularly hazardous. The open drain has worsened the already damaged road, making it nearly impassable for two-wheelers and pedestrians. The road is so congested that it takes nearly 30 minutes to cover just 500 metres,” he said.

Work on the drain has stalled for several months.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

“People are risking their lives every single day while crossing these stretches,” said Nayan Jyoti Bhagwati, adding that several minor accidents have already occurred due to the open drains and uneven roads.

MLA M. Krishnappa told The Hindu that he had directed immediate start of construction work. “I have also approached the Shantipura Gram Panchayat to provide space for drainage outlets from Rayasandra Circle,” he said, adding that the problem will end soon.

The lack of coordination between different agencies had left people to bear the brunt of administrative negligence. However, the work finally began on October 12 after multiple complaints.