Bengaluru: At a time where studies show only one tree for seven people in the concrete city and the absolute failure of civic agencies like the BBMP to plant any trees, ongoing projects like sacrificing a giant tree opposite Syndicate Bank on Pattalamma Temple Road in Jayanagar to build a skywalk, have angered the public. Daily commuters are convinced the skywalk will be a senseless project.
Pedestrians and motorists who travel that way daily, have for years admired and cherished the giant tree at the corner of the road opposite Syndicate Bank in Jayanagar, third block, and have taken shelter under its leafy canopy while waiting at the signal. Now that tree is no more. The ongoing construction work for a skywalk has led to the cutting down of the tree.
“It was so big that it completely covered the Syndicate bank building, giving shelter to several commuters. But the authorities have removed it to make space for a skywalk, which is totally unnecessary,” said a shopkeeper, adding, “The BBMP has come up with a plan to install skywalks on all five sides of the circle, but due to the lack of space, they are seen constructing only one, which I strongly feel will serve no purpose at all. Pedestrians can easily cross the road using the zebra crossing.”
Arun K P, a commuter, says, “It’s a senseless project. No one needs a skywalk to cross the road in this area. Installing a skywalk in a circle that has five different sides clearly shows the lack of planning. Gone are the days when civic agencies asked people or commuters what they wanted.”
The skywalk project began about six months ago and work is under way. The skywalk will have a lift facility and will connect Syndicate bank and ICICI bank on Jayanagar third block. Meanwhile, regulars lament the loss of one more tree in the vicinity.
