INFRA DEFICITS, GOVERNANCE GAPS MAR VASANTH NAGAR

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Vasanth Nagar, one of Bengaluru’s oldest and most prominent localities, is grappling with multiple civic issues that have remained unresolved for years. Vasanth Nagar, ward number 93, boasts an upscale residential landscape adorned with parks and playgrounds. Despite being a prime area, residents say governance gaps, traffic congestion, sanitation concerns, and inadequate infrastructure continue to hinder their quality of life.

Civic woes in the ward: One of the primary concerns among residents is the non-functionality of the ward committee. “For two years now, no meetings have taken place,” said, a long-time resident. “We try to raise issues through WhatsApp groups, but BBMP officials either do not respond or provide no concrete solutions.” Residents believe an overhaul in governance is necessary.

“We need a system where our voices are heard. Without structured meetings and a dedicated response mechanism, our problems will only pile up,” a civic activist and active resident. Being centrally located, Vasanth Nagar faces constant traffic congestion, worsened by unregulated parking and high footfall due to its proximity to major transit points, including the airport road. “The area needs strict parking regulations and a better traffic management system,” said Anil Rao, a daily commuter.

“With no dedicated pedestrian pathways and safe crossings, walking here feels risky.” Public transport also remains inadequate. Garbage disposal remains an ongoing challenge. “There is no wet waste composting unit in the area. Dry leaves are often mixed with regular garbage, which affects the efficiency of waste collection,” said a resident.

Toll on residents: The presence of ‘black spots’—mini landfills created by dumped waste—has tarnished the area’s aesthetics. “Even in a well-known locality like ours, you will find open garbage dumps. It’s embarrassing and unhygienic,” said Ramesh G., another resident. Public toilet facilities are either missing or in a state of disrepair. “There are hardly any functional public toilets, and the existing ones are unclean and unusable.

It is especially inconvenient for women and elderly residents,” noted Sunita Narayan, a senior citizen. Residents have also voiced concerns over the lack of adequate surveillance and lighting in the area. “Most CCTV cameras are either non-functional or unmonitored. Even if something goes wrong, there is no clear contact point to report camera issues,” said a shop owner.

Poor street lighting and broken pathways further exacerbate safety concerns. “Several streets are poorly lit, making it unsafe for pedestrians at night,” said college student Neha Sharma. “The footpaths are uneven and broken in many places, forcing people to walk on the road.”