Sir,

I agree with the observations made by Major General S.G.Vombatkere (Retd.) in SOM dated Oct. 12 regarding widening  (straightening) of Hunsur Road near Jaladarshini Guest House. Before further public uproar can begin, authorities concerned must consider all the pros and cons of such huge unnecessary investment in the name of avoiding accidents on a mere stretch of 500 meters. There are enough warning boards, signs and umpteen number of reflective paint red metal plates nailed to almost every tree on that stretch (see photo).

With all these precautionary signs, if accidents take place, it is the motorists who are to be blamed for their irrational attitude, behaviour, contempt/ negligence about lane discipline and craze for speeding. Huge moneys are being spent in the name of providing smooth rides to the motorists who travel on tyres, whereas, most pedestrian walkways are unworthy as it were, to be called footpaths.

I suggest that authorities may in the first instance, lay scientific speed-breakers in both directions at the identified accident spots/curve that is proposed to be straightened, to ensure that speeding motorists will adhere to speed limits.

People do not know at whose behest this imprudent work is proposed to be undertaken by spending Rs.12 crore for a mere stretch of 500 meters. People are entitled to know the details of the plan of action, road drawings, benefits etc., in a transparent and accountable manner.

– Vasanthkumar Mysoremath, Environmentalist, Tilaknagar, 14.10.2017

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