K R Circle becomes nightmare for pedestrians

BENGALURU: After the tragedy where a techie died at the flooded KR Circle underpass, citizens have been expressing outrage over many issues they face at the junction. There are a total of eight signals at the junctions for pedestrians to cross and it is a nightmare for pedestrians, especially students and the elderly.

The K R Circle, which is the heart of the city, has now turned into a dangerous junction due to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike’s (BBMP) negligence. Pedestrians trying to cross the road are literally clinging on to their lives. Citizens allege that the pedestrian underpass has been locked due to lack of staff and they are now pressuring the Palike officials to open the subway.

Pedestrians crossing the road at KR Circle have no alternative routes. The junction is always busy as five main roads converge there.

Students say it is very dangerous and difficult to cross the roads. “The underpass was closed to the public. Sometimes, there is a rush of vehicles. If the underpass is opened to the public, it would be useful. The BBMP should pay attention to solving the problems of pedestrians”, they said.

Sabashrin, a diploma student, said, “We don’t know why the underpass is closed. It is difficult for senior citizens to cross the junction as there is no footpath. The BBMP should allow the public to use the underpass”.

Another student, Jashit, said, “All pedestrians are forced to use the main road to cross the signals. During exam time, it will get late for us to wait for the signal. The time given for pedestrians is very less and when the green signal is given for vehicles, they rush towards us. So pedestrians need to be alert more while crossing the road”.