Canadian man’s video exposes broken footpaths in Bengaluru

A calm walk on a city street has become one of the most talked about moments online this week. Not because it was unusual, but because it reflected a daily reality many people quietly live with. A short video shared from Bengaluru has triggered fresh conversations around footpaths, safety and how difficult it has become to simply walk in the city.

A video that felt real

The video was shared by Instagram user Caleb Friesen, a Canadian who lives in Bengaluru. Shot in Indiranagar’s Double Road area, the clip shows him walking alongside his young son. The camera captures broken footpaths, uneven surfaces and stretches that make walking slow and unsafe.

Along with the video, Caleb shared a message asking people to be more aware of their surroundings. “This is your signal to stop doomscrolling and start doomwalking,” he wrote, urging viewers to look beyond their screens and notice the streets they use every day.

When walking becomes difficult

In the video, Caleb spoke about the poor condition of the footpaths in the area. He said the footpaths were “damaged beyond repair.” He also pointed out how walking spaces are often blocked by potted plants, trees and parked vehicles, leaving very little room for pedestrians.

While Indiranagar at least has footpaths, Caleb said the situation is worse in many other parts of Indian metro cities. In several places, he explained, walking safely from one place to another feels “borderline comedic.”

A parent speaking up

Walking with his child made the issue more personal. Caleb shared that while change may take years and even decades, better planning is necessary. He stressed that children “deserve better,” highlighting how poor infrastructure affects families and young children the most.

City residents react

The video quickly found support from people living in Bengaluru who said the scenes were familiar. Many comments reflected frustration and disappointment.

One user wrote, “The government’s apathy towards its citizens and the future of the country is on full display.”

Another comment showed how normalised the problem has become. “I walk on these footpaths every day, but I’ve gotten so used to them that I barely notice any more,” the user said.

An old issue, new attention

The video has once again brought pedestrian safety and urban planning into public discussion. It also shows how even well-off neighbourhoods struggle with basic walking infrastructure.

For many viewers, the video did not reveal anything new. Instead, it reflected a daily experience that people have accepted over time. As conversations continue online, the message remains clear. Safe and usable footpaths are a basic need, especially for children, parents and the elderly.

Disclaimer: The Times of India does not verify the authenticity of the video or claims made in it. The views, opinions, and statements expressed in the video are those of the individual and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publication.Thumb image: Instagram