Vijayapura
The city, known for its rich historical and cultural heritage including landmarks like Gol Gumbaz, is facing increasing concerns over declining civic sense among residents, particularly in traffic discipline, cleanliness, and public behaviour.
One of the most visible issues is on the roads, where traffic rules are frequently ignored. At major junctions such as Gandhi Circle and Basaveshwar Circle, motorists are often seen jumping signals or accelerating even before the light turns green, creating confusion and raising the risk of accidents.
Traffic violations also include stopping vehicles beyond designated stop lines and improper parking. Despite clear “No Parking” zones, areas like Meenakshi Circle continue to witness unauthorised parking of autos and two-wheelers, contributing to congestion and inconvenience.
Public hygiene is another growing concern. Even in government offices and public spaces where signage prohibits spitting, walls are often stained, reflecting poor maintenance and disregard for cleanliness norms.
A more serious issue highlighted is public urination in several parts of the city, particularly near the bus stand towards Jod Gumbaz and around the Dreamland Theatre area. These incidents create unhygienic conditions, foul smell, and discomfort for pedestrians, especially women.
Authorities and observers note that these problems are less about lack of rules and more about lack of civic awareness and discipline among citizens. They stress that enforcement alone cannot bring change unless individuals take responsibility for their own behaviour.
Experts say civic sense is essential for maintaining urban order and improving quality of life. Simple actions such as obeying traffic signals, respecting parking rules, and keeping public spaces clean can significantly improve the city’s environment.
The need for collective responsibility is being emphasised, with calls for citizens to adopt better habits to help transform Vijayapura into a more disciplined, clean, and respectful urban space.