Vijayapur
A fatal accident on the busy stretch between the Bus Stand and Basaveshwar Circle in Vijayapura has triggered strong public anger, with residents blaming civic negligence and unchecked encroachment for the loss of life.
Locals allege that pedestrians are routinely forced onto the main road as footpaths have been completely occupied by hotels, mechanic shops, and other commercial establishments. Although a designated footpath exists along the stretch, it has become unusable due to illegal occupation and parking.
Residents said the victim was compelled to step onto the road due to the lack of safe walking space, leading to the accident. They described the area as a “danger zone” because of heavy traffic flow and continuous vehicle movement connecting major junctions in the city.
Encroachments are reportedly widespread. Some establishments, including hotel and repair shops, are accused of using the footpath for parking vehicles or commercial activity. In some cases, the pedestrian space has even been converted into makeshift business stalls, leaving no safe passage for walkers.
Traffic police officials said notices have been issued to shop owners and commercial establishments, but enforcement remains limited due to lack of cooperation from the municipal authorities. Civic activists argue that the city corporation has the power to take strict action, including sealing repeat offenders, but has failed to act decisively.
Residents have demanded immediate clearance of all encroachments, strict enforcement of rules, and coordinated action between police and civic bodies. They warned that continued negligence will lead to more preventable deaths unless urgent corrective measures are taken to restore pedestrian safety in the area.