Bengaluru civic budget: Footpath policy, ward-wise allocation, parking restrictions on cards

Bengaluru's new civic budget focuses on footpath policy, fund allocation, and parking restrictions to enhance urban mobility and safety.

Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development in-charge D.K. Shivakumar on Friday said that they have decided to frame a new footpath policy for the city, prioritising pedestrian movement and safety.

Mr. Shivakumar revealed the plan after a budget discussion convened at the Vidhana Soudha, which saw the participation of all legislators from Bengaluru, officials of the five city corporations, and Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) officials.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar at a meeting with officials and Bengaluru's legislators at the Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Friday. | Photo Credit: ANI

MLAs from Bengaluru unanimously batted for ward-wise allocation of funds in the upcoming civic body budgets. However, major discussions were held regarding policy changes and their implementation, such as imposing hefty fines and filing FIRs against people putting up banners, as well as implementing a parking policy and towing.

C.K. Ramamurthy, MLA for Jayanagar, told The Hindu that legislators have demanded an allocation of ₹5 crore per ward. However, GBA sources said that commissioners will hold a separate meeting and decide on the allocation later.

Among the major decisions, the MLAs unanimously agreed on clearing footpaths for smooth pedestrian movement. The first step towards this is the immediate announcement and implementation of strict no-vending zones along arterial and sub-arterial roads.