Hi-tech flyovers: BBMP's money splurging spree raises eyebrows

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The ongoing beautification projects in Bengaluru have taken an extravagant turn as the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) sets out to provide citizens with a multitude of hi-tech amenities beneath the city's flyovers. While the space beneath flyovers was originally intended for the benefit of the public, it has sparked concerns over what some perceive as wasteful expenditure.

Currently, work has commenced under the flyover near Sivananda Circle, with plans underway to introduce high-tech facilities beneath several other flyovers across the city. Moreover, safety measures, such as the installation of grills, are being implemented. Under the State government's ambitious Amrita Nagrothana Yojana, the BBMP's planning department has allocated a budget of Rs10.45 crore for development projects at four junctions, including the flyover.

One notable highlight of these initiatives is the creation of a Public Plaza, encompassing an array of amenities for the public's comfort and convenience. Visitors to the Public Plaza can expect various facilities, including seating arrangements, drinking water provisions, mobile charging stations, designated reading areas, and children's play zones.

Furthermore, the plaza will boast of meticulously designed ornamental plants, ensuring a visually appealing environment. To meet the needs of the community, a state-of-theart high-tech toilet facility will be constructed, along with a dedicated auto rickshaw pickup zone. Additionally, a zebra crossing pedestrian signal ramp will also be built to enhance safety for pedestrians.

While BBMP's intentions appear noble, in their effort to revamp these spaces into vibrant public areas the extravagant expenditure has raised eyebrows among certain sections of the population. The effectiveness and utilization of these lavish transformations beneath the flyovers remain a subject of public debate.