Sir,
Mysuru, once celebrated as a ‘pensioner’s paradise’ known for its wide, tree-lined roads, is rapidly becoming a nightmare for pedestrians. This is largely due to rampant footpath encroachment by commercial buildings and street vendors.
Having resided near Akshay Bhandar in Kuvempunagar for the past two decades, I have witnessed this decline first-hand.
Before 2020, walking in this area was a pleasant experience characterised by expansive footpaths and lush greenery. However, the landscape has shifted drastically over the last two years.
Many old houses on New Kantharaj Urs Road and Vishwamanava Double Road have been converted into commercial establishments, including a surge in new eateries.
While commercial growth is not an issue, the management of it has been disastrous. These establishments have effectively claimed public footpaths as private parking lots for their customers, completely blocking the way for walkers.
Even more concerning is the emerging trend of commercial shops and eateries constructing permanent structures or fences on the pavement to create outdoor seating areas or restricted parking zones.
This trend is causing significant hardship, particularly for senior citizens. With footpaths obstructed, pedestrians are forced to walk on the main road, leading to a high risk of fatal accidents and creating a dangerous environment for both walkers and drivers.
The Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) Zone 3 Office, being located in the immediate vicinity, officials have remained indifferent. There is a glaring lack of official interest in checking these encroachments or reclaiming the footpaths for public use.
If this trend remains unchecked, these vital public spaces will soon be permanently lost and become the private spaces of commercial establishments.
- Vasanth, Kuvempunagar, 17.5.2026
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