Karnataka govt to introduce new footpath policy, impose heavy fines for illegal flex banners
Bengaluru, July 3
Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said that the state government will bring a new footpath policy to ensure clear pedestrian access and impose fines up to ₹1 lakh on illegal flex banners.
Speaking to reporters here, Shivakumar said, "I have agreed that a new policy should be brought for footpaths. Citizens are facing a lot of trouble walking on footpaths. We have made footpaths after investing heavily, but vehicles are parked there and business is being carried out."
He said designated vending zones will be fixed for street vendors.
"We must fix specific places for vendors and create an opportunity to keep footpaths clean for citizens to walk. For the business of one person, the entire footpath becomes unusable and people are forced to walk on the road. This must be stopped. That is why we have decided to bring a new policy for footpaths," the CM said.
Shivakumar added that the government will notify roads where vending is allowed.
"We will announce on which roads footpaths cannot be occupied. On some side roads, we will allow those who are registered. Except that, all others will be removed. All MLAs have unanimously expressed their opinion and given me the responsibility," he added.
Speaking on the issue of illegal flex banners, he said that fines will be imposed on those whose name is found at the bottom of the banners.
"No matter how much we say, flex banners keep coming up. All parties put them up, our party people also do. Everyone puts up flexes. The name of whoever is at the bottom will be fined," Shivakumar said.
"We have said that a fine of ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh will be imposed for each flex. Because this flex business has become excessive. Birthday wishes, all that. If the government has something, there is a streamlined system for it. There is an advertisement board. Anyone can take that and do it. Apart from that, there is no permission to put up banners anywhere else," he added.
The CM stressed that flexes put up for birthdays or events without using authorised advertisement boards will face heavy penalties.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good intentions but let's be realistic. Every political party puts flex banners for birthdays, anniversaries, and what not. Will they actually fine their own party members? I'll believe it when I see it. Also, what about the poor vendors who depend on footpaths for their livelihood? Need a proper rehabilitation plan.
Finally! As someone who walks daily in Indiranagar, I can't tell you how frustrating it is to walk on the road because vehicles are parked on footpaths. ₹1 lakh fine for flex banners is a strict move but necessary. The city looks like a circus with all these banners everywhere. 🙌
I work in Bengaluru for a multinational and this is long overdue. The state of footpaths here is appalling compared to cities like Mumbai or even Pune. But what about enforcement? Who will monitor every street? Need a robust system with public reporting maybe.
Designated vending zones are a great idea! Street vendors are an integral part of our city culture and provide affordable food and services. But they shouldn't block footpaths. CM sahab please ensure these zones have basic amenities like water and shade. Also, please clear the encroachments by big businesses too, not just small vendors!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.