Experts demand strict safety norms for BWSSB excavations

Beyond potholes and crumbling roads, Bengaluru residents face yet another persistent civic hazard - the numerous open excavation sites left behind by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), many of which lack proper barricading, adequate demarcation, or cautionary signage. These unattended trenches are more than just an inconvenience; they pose a serious threat to pedestrians, motorists, and commuters. In several locations, the caution tape meant to warn road users has either fallen off or is barely visible, making the excavated pits difficult to spot, especially after dark.

The danger is compounded by the city's chaotic traffic conditions. With frequent traffic violations such as wrong-side driving and motorists using mobile phones behind the wheel, the likelihood of someone accidentally plunging into these open trenches increases significantly. These factors turn unmarked excavation sites into potential death traps, significantly increasing the likelihood of serious or even fatal accidents. "They need to strictly follow safety protocols, which have been taken for granted these days”, said Anil Budur Lulla, writer and policy analyst.

He stressed that projects involving road excavation or sewer works must be properly barricaded, as they pose significant risks to the public. "The entire work area should be secured with barricades. Where full barricading is not feasible, reflective traffic cones connected with chains can be used to clearly demarcate the site”, he said. Budur also suggested that authorities install pre-charged solar-powered warning lamps at excavation sites to improve visibility, particularly for early morning walkers and late-night commuters.

"These can function like emergency lights to alert road users that work is in progress. CCTV cameras should also be installed to monitor the sites. This would improve accountability, reduce the need for constant manual supervision, and help track the progress of work”, he added. Responding to the concerns, a top official from BWSSB, Jayaram (name changed for anonymity), told News Trail that the agency has laid down strict safety guidelines for all project sites that executives have to follow and that public and worker safety remains its top priority.

"We are taking action against sites that fail to follow safety protocols or do not install proper caution signs and barricades. Such violations are identified during our inspections”, he said. The official added that BWSSB has also been actively addressing public grievances related to construction debris and excavation sites, while coordinating with other civic agencies as part of ongoing city-wide campaigns. Mobility crusader and Urban strategist Vinod Jacob said civic agencies should ensure better planning and coordination before undertaking road excavation works.

"Whenever BWSSB carries out work, especially in residential areas, residents' welfare associations or local communities should be informed in advance. Parastatal agencies such as the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM), and BWSSB should regularly exchange information and hold coordination meetings, as these are the agencies that most frequently touch the roads”, he said.

He emphasised that the agencies should prepare a comprehensive blueprint before digging up roads and ensure that roads are restored to a proper condition immediately after the work is completed. He further recommended installing highly visible safety nets or temporary fencing around excavation sites before work begins. "Reflective tapes, caution triangles, and other standard road safety measures should be used without exception to clearly warn motorists and pedestrians”, he said.