Bengaluru’s flooded KR Circle underpass: Lokayukta cracks the whip

Bengaluru: Addressing persistent civic failure, Karnataka Lokayukta Justice BS Patil has issued a detailed order aimed at finding a permanent solution to the chronic waterlogging at KR Circle underpass. This action follows his personal inspection of the site on April 30, after heavy rain once again left the underpass, located close to the Lokayukta office in MS Building, submerged.The KR Circle underpass gained notoriety in May 2023 when Bhanurekha, a 23-year-old techie, drowned after her car became trapped in neck-deep water. Despite a suo motu case and subsequent inquiries, the April 29 rain saw the underpass get flooded once more, highlighting the lack of effective remedial measures. During the ongoing investigation, engineers from the storm-water drain and underpass divisions allegedly blamed one another for the failure to prevent flooding.Justice Patil expressed strong displeasure over this administrative deadlock and the continued risk to public safety."Justice Patil emphasised that the right to well-maintained roads is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution. The next formal inquiry session is scheduled for May 20, where these high-level officials are expected to present concrete plans to prevent further tragedies," a senior Lokayukta official told TOI. To break the cycle of "maladministration," the Lokayukta has expanded the scope of the case by making several top-tier officials party to the inquiry. These include the chief secretary of Karnataka, additional chief secretary for urban development, commissioner of Bengaluru Central City Corporation, and key officials from Greater Bengaluru Authority.It may be recalled that Lokayukta had booked the chief secretary and others after holding them responsible for the seven deaths that occurred during a compound wall collapse at Bowring and Lady Curzon Medical College and Research Institute last week.
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