Sir,

I would like to draw the attention of the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) to a serious issue of footpath encroachment and damage along T.K. Layout Main Road — from RTTC water tank up to Kavitha Bakery.

At least 10 street hawkers operate near the water tank, having damaged the footpath to erect permanent and semi-permanent stalls. Their unauthorised presence from 5 am to 10 pm has led to chaotic parking by buyers, resulting in traffic congestion.

A more distressing concern is the complete loss of safe walking space for senior citizens and children, who are forced to walk on the busy road amidst traffic. I personally witnessed a senior citizen falling onto the road while trying to avoid oncoming vehicles, during late evenings.

What was once a calm neighbourhood has now turned into a public nuisance. Both sides of the footpath are encroached by vegetable and fruit vendors, eateries and makeshift shops. Further down, large tea stalls have also been set up on footpath.

Adding to the problem, residents along the road have converted the remaining stretch of footpath into unauthorised parking spaces, with some even erecting poles to create covered parking for their vehicles.

We pay hefty taxes to MCC, yet we are denied even the basic right to a usable footpath, especially in our later years. Who authorised these individuals to damage and occupy public property? Why should taxpayers be made to suffer?

I urge the MCC to take immediate action to clear these encroachments and restore safe walking paths for citizens.

— A tax-paying senior citizen, Mysuru, 26.10.2025

You can also mail us your views, opinions, and stories to [email protected]