Commuters along the Arekere-Hulimavu stretch on Bannerghatta Road have to endure the revolting stench wafting from the damaged sewage lines, missing slabs on the footpath and heavy traffic.
The reason: the Namma Metro work on the stretch is continuing. So, is the peak-hour traffic that crawls along, releasing exhaust fume.
The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited is carrying out work to put up pillars and tracks as part of Phase 2, which links Gottigere-Swagath Road Cross. Roads are being widened in this stretch, making space for a median to support metro pillars.
As pedestrians leap around leaking sewage firmly covering their nose, officials say that work on this stretch would go on for 18 months. The growing puddles of sewage have also become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
“Every day, the dirty water flows through the road near the Hulimavu gate. No space on the pavements. With roads choked with traffic, it is getting impossible to walk through this stretch,” said Priya Deshpande, a local resident.
More time to cross the road
The construction material dumped in the middle of the road has constricted the passage, forcing motorists to spend an additional half an hour to cross the stretch in the peak hours.
“We have a tough time (negotiating the stretch) since the construction is happening right in front of our college. Most of us walk to college, which has become dangerous since the stretch has
no footpath” said Ketaki Singh, a student of Christ University, Bannerghatta Road campus.
“Some of us have sustained minor injuries since the construction equipment is left unattended without warning signs,” the student added.
BBMP officials are unavailable for comment.