BENGALURU: The BBMP has imposed a fine of Rs. 1 lakh on the owner of a building on MN Krishna Rao Road in Basavanagudi for unlawfully constructing a ramp on a public footpath, thereby hindering pedestrian movement. The ramp, part of a building under construction at Property No. 16, overtook the entire footpath and was covered with green netting, rendering it unusable for pedestrians.
Following complaints, BBMP officials conducted an inspection and confirmed the encroachment. The ramp, rather than being confined to private property, extended across the entire pedestrian walkway, forcing people onto the road. This violation was brought to light after BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath instructed officials to increase penalties and issue notices to property owners misusing public space without appropriate approvals.
In response to these directives, Chief Engineer (South Zone) Basavaraj Kabade ordered a field inspection. Based on the findings, the property owner received a notice along with the Rs. 1 lakh penalty. The owner has since submitted a cheque made out to the BBMP Chief Commissioner and has been warned against similar infractions, emphasizing that public convenience must not be compromised by private construction activities.
In an associated matter, three BBMP officials from the Mahalakshmipuram sub-division in the West Zone have been relieved of their duties due to alleged negligence. This disciplinary action follows their repeated failure to address civic complaints and adhere to instructions given during zonal review meetings.
During review sessions on July 1 and 2, 2025, officials were instructed to register resident complaints on the Sahaaya 2.0 platform and ensure timely resolutions. These instructions were reiterated in formal proceedings on July 14. However, during an early morning inspection by the Chief Commissioner at Ward 102 (Vrushabhavathinagar), several issues were uncovered—such as pothole-ridden roads, garbage accumulation, and obstructed footpaths due to debris from demolitions.
Despite numerous complaints, no action was taken on the Sahaaya platform, prompting the administration to view this inaction as a sign of irresponsibility and lack of accountability. The three officials were promptly removed from their positions.
