Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Nov 12: The encroachment of footpaths in the city has forced pedestrians to walk on the roads, leading to an unavoidable situation.

In some places, shops have taken over the footpaths, while in others, vendors conduct their businesses directly on the sidewalks. Many footpaths are uneven and filled with potholes, posing a risk of pedestrians falling into them. This scenario is particularly evident from Kinnimulki to the service bus stop in the city.

Large iron pipes and other materials have been stored on the pedestrian path near the old Diana Circle, causing daily inconvenience to both pedestrians and motorists. These materials are reportedly for the construction of signal poles. They have been stored there for the past two years, contributing to traffic accidents. Due to these pipes occupying the pedestrian pathway, pedestrians are compelled to walk on the main road. Locals have urged the city and district administration to promptly remove these iron materials through the concerned authorities.

During festivals, the sale of flowers on the footpaths in front of the city council results in traffic congestion. Additionally, motorists trying to navigate the area struggle, creating a chaotic scene. Passengers are often seen boarding and alighting buses in the middle of the road. Despite the installation of no-parking signs and various traffic signals, parking occurs indiscriminately, causing challenges for both pedestrians and motorists. There is a demand for the city administration to designate a separate area for flower vendors during such times.

"If street vending on footpaths is observed in various parts of the city, fines will be imposed, and immediate steps will be taken for removal. Instructions will also be given to the concerned parties for clearing the signal pole materials," Dr Uday Shetty, acting commissioner, city council said.