The New Indian Express 04.11.2010
Vasanthnagar: Rat race to garbage
The BBMP workers dig up footpaths frequently and don’t usually lay them back. “Roads have been dug and for the past six months they have been this way, because of which there is absolutely no space for the pedestrians to walk,” said a resident of 2nd Cross Vasanthnagar.
Inadequacy of garbage disposal bins in the area is another cause for concern, The lane opposite MCC popularly called the Loafers Street by students has a huge pile of unattended garbage especially near the 4th cross. Empty plots have been converted into dumpsters. “Garbage collectors do not come to this area on a regular basis and even if they do, they demand money,” said another resident. Heavy rains cause water logging due to improper drainage facilities and some shops in the area are almost unapproachable.
“As a resident of Vasanthnagar for the past many years, I have come to observe that the roads are getting worse, the local authorities have worked on main roads but not small by-lanes. The roads are also being used to dump garbage by the residents since there are no garbage dumpsters available. It is sad to see that the place is infested with rats and cockroaches. Certain empty plots are being used as urinals and the stench is unbearable. Also, the Millers Tank Bund Road has not been maintained properly and is a sorry sight. Only if the roads were maintained, traffic could be directed to that road and congestion could be avoided,” said R P Panduranga, a resident of Vasanthnagar.
Tency, another resident, of the 11th Main which is predominantly a slum said “I have lived here for thirty years. There are no drainage facilities or water pipes. And we have no supply of drinking water. Even basic amenities like construction of toilets is being delayed and we are forced to use the pay and use toilets. It is sad that the corporation has stopped the supply of water and have removed all the public taps. We have to come to the 8th Main to fill water.”
Lack of parking space forces students to park their vehicles on footpaths, thereby blocking passage for the pedestrians. Also, there are no playgrounds for children. Residents also said that the Counsellor is not approachable and hasn’t made any attempt so far in visiting the areas.
On the brighter side there is constant patrolling by the Hoysala police in order to curb the problem of eve teasing. Also, authorities like BESCOM have been extremely cooperative when approached. However, the corporator was unavailable for comment.
