Over 1,000 residents hailing from Balagere, Panathur, Varthur, Gunkur, and neighboring areas joined hands in a human chain on Saturday, demanding the swift completion of the Panathur S-Cross road-widening and the construction of a railway underpass. The significance of the S-Cross Road in Panathur lies in its connection between Balagere’s residential zones and Kadubeesanahalli along the Outer Ring Road, which hosts numerous IT companies.
Source: Storypick
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During the protest, citizens faced an unexpected hurdle as the police confiscated placards, homemade charts, and printouts that they had prepared to highlight the pressing issues plaguing their neighborhood’s infrastructure. Surprisingly, organizers had secured permission from the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Whitefield) and Whitefield traffic police for the human chain, raising questions about the Varthur police’s intervention. Despite the setback, residents remain steadfast in their pursuit of a solution to the crumbling infrastructure that hampers daily life.
Source: DH
In a proactive move preceding the physical demonstration, residents initiated an online campaign under the hashtag #BalagereDemandsRoads. This digital movement aimed to bring attention to the infrastructural challenges faced by the community. One protester articulated the future concerns, stating, “In the next academic year, three major schools are set to open on Balagere Road. Will the traffic even move? Should our children bear the brunt of living in Mahadevapura, the area housing a majority of Bangalore’s IT companies?”
 "Residents Unite In Protest For Urgent Road Infrastructure Improvements In Bengaluru 89")
Source: Business Standards
The residents’ demands are clear and focused, reflecting the urgency of addressing the current situation. They call for the widening of the Panathur railway underpass on S-Cross Road, completion of the partially constructed 150-ft CDP Road from Gunjur to ORR, widening of Balagere Road at the Varthur police station junction, and the opening of access to the railway vent leading to Croma Road on ORR. The latter is emphasized until the S-Cross widening is completed, involving the crucial step of asphalting the stretch. These demands encapsulate the community’s collective plea for immediate attention to alleviate their daily struggles and facilitate smoother connectivity.
