Water fountains meant to beautify Bengaluru and reduce air pollution have fallen into disrepair, sparking public outcry over the Bangalore Bruhat Mahanagara Palike’s (BBMP) neglect. Several key areas, including KR Circle and Kempegowda Road, feature fountains in dilapidated states—some dry and others plagued by broken infrastructure like junction boards and lighting systems.
Originally constructed at a cost of 27 crores across 42 high-traffic junctions under the BJP government in 2021, these fountains were intended to enhance the city’s aesthetics and air quality. However, due to lack of maintenance, many have become eyesores, filled with sewage and serving as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
For instance, the water fountain near KR Circle, once a selfie spot with the slogan ‘I love Bangalore’, now sits neglected and stagnant. Similarly, the fountain on Kempegowda Road, leading to Majestic, has also deteriorated. Even older installations, like the fountain near City Center Mall, have suffered neglect despite community efforts to maintain adjacent areas.
Citizens, dismayed by the mismanagement of taxpayer-funded projects, are demanding immediate restoration of these fountains. They argue that revitalizing these features not only preserves the city’s beauty but also aligns with environmental goals by reducing pollution through water features.
