Yediyur ward grapples with poor footpaths, dark streets and waste woes

Bengaluru: Yediyur (Ward 167) is a prominent and well-established ward in South Bengaluru, renowned for its blend of residential tranquillity and civic significance. The ward encompasses several important localities, including sections of Jayanagar 6th Block, Thyagaraj Nagar and Shastri Nagar, among others.

This blend contributes to the ward’s identity as a key residential hub with essential social infrastructure. The area is distinctively characterised by the presence of the historic Yediyur Lake, a significant water body that serves as a natural landmark and a vital green space within the ward.

Yediyur faces a mix of civic and environmental challenges common in rapidly developing urban areas. The most significant and persistent ecological issue in the ward is the pollution and poor maintenance of Yediyur Lake.

Pedestrians face challenges with mobility
Infrastructure-related problems continue to pose a major challenge to both mobility and pedestrian safety within the ward. One of the most persistent issues is the poor condition of footpaths – many are uneven, have missing slabs, or are encroached upon by vendors and parked vehicles.

With obstructions such as vendor carts, parked two-wheelers and garbage heaps blocking path ways, pedestrians are often forced to walk on the roads. Fortunately, the area’s relatively wide roads help maintain smooth vehicular movement despite these challenges.

Black spots spotted
During a visit, News Trail corre spondents observed several ‘black spots’ where garbage and debris had been dumped openly. A large pile of waste was spotted near Brigade MM, and several companies in the vicinity were found disposing of different kinds of waste along the roadside.

Authorities must conduct in spections, clear these dumps, and raise public awareness about proper waste disposal – even small litter contributes to a larger problem.

Stuck in twilight zone
Another key concern is inadequate street lighting in some stretches, which poses safety risks. “We shifted here recently, and while there aren’t too many issues, the street lighting is a concern,” said Hithansh, a resident. In a largely residential area with families, poor illumination can be hazardous, especially for children and the elderly.

Additionally, several telephone and electrical wires were found hanging loosely near the ground, a potential safety hazard that needs urgent attention from the authorities. The GBA is urged to address these infrastructure gaps through timely maintenance and monitoring.

Sustained attention can ensure the ward develops into a safer and more pedestrian-friendly locality.