BENGALURU
The Karnataka Lokayukta has stepped in decisively over the recurring flooding at the KR Circle underpass, with Justice B.S. Patil directing officials to present a permanent solution to the long-standing civic issue.
The move follows the Lokayukta’s personal inspection of the underpass on April 30, a day after heavy rain once again submerged the stretch near the MS Building. The site has remained a major safety concern since May 2023, when a 23-year-old techie lost her life after her car was trapped in deep water.
Despite a suo motu case and multiple inquiries since then, the latest flooding has exposed gaps in implementation of corrective measures. During the ongoing probe, engineers from storm-water drain and underpass divisions reportedly blamed each other for the failure, prompting strong criticism from Justice Patil.
Expressing displeasure over the lack of coordination, he stressed that safe and well-maintained roads are part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. He warned that continued negligence poses a serious risk to public safety.
To ensure accountability, the Lokayukta has widened the scope of the inquiry, bringing several senior officials under scrutiny. These include the Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary for Urban Development, and representatives from the Greater Bengaluru Authority and the city civic body.
Officials have been directed to submit a clear, time-bound action plan to prevent future flooding incidents. The next hearing is scheduled for May 20, when top bureaucrats are expected to outline concrete measures.
The development comes close on the heels of recent civic lapses in the city, with the Lokayukta already taking action against senior officials in connection with other incidents. The renewed focus on KR Circle underscores the urgency to address Bengaluru’s infrastructure vulnerabilities before they lead to further tragedies.