Intro
The Minister stressed pedestrian safety, with officials creating transformer design rules and ensuring rods are installed at safe heights
CH NEWS, Bengaluru
Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda has directed BESCOM officials to prepare a complete list of electricity-related obstructions blocking footpaths across the city and remove them during the Freedom from Waste campaign starting on August 1.
The Minister gave instructions during a virtual meeting on Tuesday about shifting transformers and other obstacles placed on pedestrian paths. He said the cleanliness campaign would involve several departments and focus on creating safer walking areas for citizens.
He highlighted that damaged poles, hanging wires, and unsafe rods near transformers can harm pedestrians. Officials were asked to remove unused poles, clear waste around them, and shift transformers from footpaths to suitable locations. A permanent plan will also be prepared to prevent such problems.
Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao said old transformer fences were affecting pedestrian movement and causing waste collection issues. He directed officials to replace old transformers with better designs and move them whenever required. BESCOM Managing Director Shivashankar said around 7,000 old transformers on footpaths had already been replaced and remaining issues would be handled through a special drive.
The Minister stressed that footpaths must remain safe zones for pedestrians. Officials will create common design rules for transformers and ensure rods are installed at a safe height. The city administration aims to remove all identified obstructions quickly and provide cleaner, safer, and more accessible roads for Bengaluru residents. The move is expected to improve daily travel for people across Bengaluru by keeping pathways clear and reducing risks caused by public infrastructure issues while supporting a cleaner city where pedestrians can walk freely.
Key highlights of the meeting
- BESCOM asked to identify electricity-related footpath obstructions citywide.
- Transformers and unsafe structures will be shifted away.
- Freedom from Waste campaign begins from August 1.
- Officials highlighted risks from poles, wires, and rods.
- Around 7,000 old transformers already replaced on footpaths.
- New designs planned to ensure safer pedestrian pathways.
