Bengaluru: The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (Karave) has extended its full support to the Bengaluru footpath encroachment clearance drive, praising Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda for taking steps to reclaim pedestrian pathways across the city.
In a statement, Karave State President T.A. Narayana Gowda said the removal of encroachments, including permanent and temporary structures, shops and unauthorised commercial activities on footpaths along major roads, is a necessary measure to protect the rights and safety of pedestrians.
He clarified that the operation is not aimed at any individual or trader, but is being carried out in the larger public interest to ensure safe movement, ease traffic congestion and improve the quality of urban life.
Narayana Gowda criticised attempts by certain individuals and organisations to oppose the drive, saying it is inappropriate to portray the initiative as anti-business. He pointed out that the action is focused only on encroachments along major roads and that commercial activities can continue in designated areas.
At the same time, he urged the government to adopt a humane approach towards the livelihoods of poor and small traders by providing alternative vending spaces wherever necessary. However, he maintained that opposing the restoration of public footpaths is neither legally nor morally justified.
He noted that in many parts of Bengaluru, pedestrians are forced to walk on roads due to encroachments, increasing the risk of accidents. Ensuring safe and accessible footpaths, he said, is an essential requirement for a modern and well-planned city.
Karave also urged the government to continue the clearance drive without yielding to political pressure and to prioritise the removal of abandoned vehicles, encroachments on lakes, stormwater drains (rajakaluves) and government land.
Reiterating the organisation’s support, Narayana Gowda said Karnataka Rakshana Vedike would stand firmly behind Minister Krishna Byre Gowda and the state government in implementing measures aimed at the overall development of Bengaluru.
