Bengaluru police propose 78 new skywalks

To tackle rising pedestrian risks and traffic congestion, the Bengaluru City Police have submitted a proposal to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to construct 78 new skywalks across the city. The aim is to enhance pedestrian safety, particularly near high-traffic zones like schools, colleges, hospitals, government offices, and commercial hubs.

The proposal comes after observing frequent accidents and traffic slowdowns caused by pedestrians struggling to cross busy roads. The police department identified accident-prone areas and critical junctions for the skywalks, especially locations where more than two roads converge and dividers are present. The plan includes installing CCTV cameras with 30-day video backup on all skywalks, including entry and exit points, elevators, and stairways.

BBMP will not fund the construction but will invite private agencies through tenders. These contractors will be responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the skywalks. In return, they will be granted advertising rights on the structures for revenue generation. After the maintenance period ends, the skywalks will be handed over to BBMP.

Key specifications include:

Minimum 10-foot width

Load capacity of 500 kg per square meter

3.5-meter overhead clearance

Dual elevator access

Solar power integration and dust protection for pedestrians

The skywalks are expected to ease pedestrian movement and reduce road mishaps while improving overall traffic flow. BBMP is currently reviewing the proposal and is likely to begin the tender process soon. Civic officials believe this initiative could transform Bengaluru’s pedestrian safety landscape.