Bengaluru: The iconic Church Street in the Central Business District has been in disarray since the BBMP took up the ambitious restoration work over few months. As with other Palike projects, this one too has missed deadlines and the road is now filled with earthmovers and construction material, blocking the movement of vehicles and people.
The worst affected are the traders. A number textile shops on the stretch are empty when they should be doing roaring business this festive season. No parking space and restricted movement of vehicles to speed up completion of works have had a telling effect on their balance sheets.
Mr Irfan Noor, secretary, Church Street Occupants Association said that the business has suffered a big hit. “But the progress of work is satisfactory. Work is being done in two shifts. Unfortunately, the BBMP is facing a tough time as the old and corroded pipes have to be replaced,” he said.
“Work on storm water drains and sanitary lines have been completed. Since no vehicles have been allowed for the last two months, work has progressed considerably. Road work may begin from next month. As far as the shifting of transformers is concerned, the officials are finding it difficult to find a suitable place,” Mr Noor said. “Traders have no choice but to wait for the completion of works. The BBMP had promised to complete the works in six months that is by August end, but the deadline is unlikely to be met. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, during his recent inspection, gave November as deadline. The traders hope that the BBMP will meet that deadline at least,” he said. The BBMP has taken up the works on the 912-metre stretch of Church Street at a cost of Rs 11 crore. The works include improving pedestrian facility, providing LED streetlights, shifting of utilities and upgrading of the road.
