For over eight months, a crucial stretch of the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple Main Road, connecting Cambridge Layout to Indiranagar, has been partially blocked due to ongoing stormwater drain cleaning and pipeline laying by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB).
The road was initially excavated to clear blocked sewage lines caused by garbage accumulation and to connect them to a different sewer. BWSSB’s additional task of laying new pipelines has further delayed the road repair.
An open manhole in the middle of the road, barricaded by the BBMP, poses a significant risk to passersby, especially during evening rains. Residents have reported severe traffic congestion and safety hazards. “It’s a nightmare during rush hour, and it’s risky for kids to navigate,” a resident said.
Shopkeepers in the area have witnessed frequent clashes between frustrated drivers trying to maneuver through the restricted space. “We’ve seen fights break out over who should move first. Delivery partners picking up online orders often get stuck in traffic with no way out,” a shopkeeper reported.
A resident posted about the issue on social media platform X, tagging the BBMP. The Palike promised swift action, but significant progress remains unseen.
Stormwater Drain (SWD) officials confirmed that work has been temporarily halted due to the monsoon. “Half the work is done. We were forced to stop due to the rain as it is dangerous. Once the rain recedes, we will finish the work and clear up the road to relieve traffic congestion, an official stated.
