The City has many skywalks which are intended for the convenience and safety of pedestrians. However, whether these constructions are serving the purpose is something to ponder about. Apart from the existing skywalks, the BBMP is planning to construct 33 new skywalks at major junctions in the City. Out of this, 13 junctions have been approved as of now.
The new ones, to which elevators will be rigged, are expected to cost a whopping Rs 1.5 crore. They will be constructed on BOOT (Build Own Operate and Transfer) basis, which works on a 20-year-contract and the taxes will have to be paid to the BBMP. Sources said that locations, where heavy traffic flow causes inconvenience to pedestrians, have been chosen for installation of the skywalks.
“Every year, we see so many pedestrians getting killed in road accidents and we don’t want such incidents to be repeated. Our primary intention is their safety and we are working to ensure the same,” said an official from the BBMP in charge of skywalks.
When asked about the number of people using the skywalks, the official said, “There are no records or statistics as to how many people are using the skywalks but due to public demand and increasing traffic on busy roads, we have made it a point to provide some respite for the pedestrians by installing skywalks,” he added.
The public also echoed their views on the viability of the skywalks. Narayan, a security guard with a private school, said, “Although there is a skywalk near the school, children seldom use it. People cross the road without bothering about the heavy traffic, which causes great inconvenience to the motorists too. I have seen only foreigners using the skywalks. I think people should use the skywalk to be on the safe side.”
Gladus Moureal, a B Com student, has a different view, “I would rather cross the road since it is easier to do so and it saves time. If the road gets cleared in a while, we can get to the other end easily. On the other hand, if you use the skywalk, it would take at least five minutes to reach the other end,” she says. Neha, a BBM student, is of the opinion that “The BBMP should have a proper plan and put up skywalks where they are really needed. Places like K R Puram need a skywalk since it is a very busy junction but the one near Richmond Circle is unused. Moreover, it should be constructed in such a way that it benefits both senior citizens and children alike since they are at a higher risk while crossing the road.” Manoj B A, a lecturer, feels that the BBMP is just splurging money on skywalks without creating any awareness for the public, “I think it’s just a waste of money. They should at least make an attempt to motivate the public to use skywalks and educate people about the importance of using them. This would not only serve the purpose but ensure a safe landing also,’’ he sums up.