By Prakash VL
Poor maintenance plagues CNR Rao Circle underpass, poses hazards for commuters
The Bharat Ratna CNR Rao underpass connecting Malleswaram with Yeshwanthpur is riddled with maintenance problems, turning it into a potential hazard for commuters. Despite BBMP’s efforts to improve its appearance by trimming plants on one side, the underpass still presents a stark picture of neglect, with risks of collapsing drain meshes, knocked-down decorative plants, and scattered concrete debris on the other side.
Regular visitors to the underpass have expressed concerns about safety hazards. Guru D, a frequent user, said, “The drain mesh barriers at the underpass’s edge are widening, and decorative plants are knocked down, with concrete debris strewn all around. The underpass, which has been problematic since its inception, has now transformed into a potential hazard.
The drain mesh in the underpass is broken, exposing the drain entirely.”
Sangeeta Kumar, a resident of Malleswaram, added, “Previously, the mesh and railings were broken, leaving the drain open at the CNR Rao Circle underpass. Incidents of bikers skidding and sustaining minor injuries were common. The underpass, shaped like a Y, with one arm connecting Yeshwanthpur to Mehkri Circle and the other to Malleswaram, slopes downwards, causing vehicles to gain extra speed, abruptly halting near the drain. There was a risk of car tires getting stuck, posing a real danger to motorists. After public outcry, the drain mesh was not properly replaced; instead, a substantial road hump covered it, with drain meshes left exposed at the edges. Now, even those drain meshes are at risk of quick damage.”
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Despite repeated pleas from law enforcement for a permanent solution, the BBMP has yet to take action. The issues at the CNR Rao Circle underpass have persisted since its troubled inception in 2010. Experts suggest that construction oversights and labour disputes during its construction have contributed to ongoing problems. Moreover, the underpass’s concrete structure is marred by potholes, and the approach roads have developed craters and cracks. Additionally, a section of the retaining wall collapsed during its early days, leading to months of restoration.
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