A lot of prominent traffic junctions in the city bear a sign board indicating that a subway is presently  undergoing renovation. This clearly shows that the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has finally understood the importance of pedestrian subways and therefore, undertaken the renovation of 11 subways across the city.

According to K S Krishnaswamy, chief engineer, currently 11 subways are being renovated with the work being at different stages of completion at different subways.

“New tiles are being laid,  the spaces are being washed with acid, the floors are being scrubbed and necessary amenities are being upgraded,” says Krishnaswamy, adding that the BBMP would be recruiting security guards for each subway.

“Since the tender for security placements had expired, we have called for a new tender. Once that is finalised, the subways will be opened for usage,” he explains.

According to executive engineer Raja Manohar, the cost of renovating each subway has been billed between Rs 50-60,000 . “It depends on the length of the subway and the works required to make it attractive,” he says.

Previously, city subways were not only poorly ventilated but also badly maintained, posing a risk to pedestrians who used them.

“Security guards will now  play the dual role of not only guarding the subways but also making sure that no illegal activities take place. They will check on cleanliness too. Most subways are yet to be reopened as security guards have not been hired.

"However, the subway near KR Circle and one near SJP Polytechnic have both been opened. Within a month, all the subways will sport a new look,” he stressed.