Footpath near Kalamandira was converted into dwelling with water connections & toilet

Mysuru: Even as the MCC continues its drive against encroachments across the city, a decades-old occupation of a footpath near Kalamandira had remained untouched, raising questions over the selective enforcement of civic laws. Following a report published in Mysuru Mithra, the sister publication of Star of Mysore, the encroachments were removed this morning.

The footpath, beside the city’s premier cultural venue and used daily by hundreds of residents, art enthusiasts and tourists, had been occupied by a Rajasthani family for nearly 35 years.

What reportedly began as a temporary shelter had evolved into a permanent dwelling. The family had constructed a shed on the footpath and was said to have secured multiple water connections and toilet facilities, converting the public walkway into a private residence.

No pedestrian space

Besides living there, the family was running a business selling terracotta and metal artefacts. Benches placed along the footpath were used to display the products, leaving little space for pedestrians.

The continued occupation stood in sharp contrast to the MCC’s ongoing anti-encroachment drive, under which roadside extensions, unauthorised name boards, roof projections and concrete steps have been removed in several parts of city.

No overnight clearance

When Star of Mysore contacted MCC Commissioner M.K. Savitha, she had said, “Such encroachments cannot be cleared overnight. We have to hold discussions with the Police Department before making a decision. At present, we are focusing on removing encroachments by commercial establishments. Cases like this will be taken up later.”

Savitha said, an inquiry would be conducted to ascertain how water and toilet connections were provided at the site. MCC would discuss the matter with the departments before initiating eviction proceedings. If necessary, the family may be relocated to alternative location.