Sir,

Here are some measures to ease traffic movement and reduce the risk of accidents at key spots across Mysuru city:

1. Immediate removal of arches near Sub-Urban Bus Stand and Government Guest House. The two arches, one near the Sub-Urban Bus Stand (Arch-1) and the other on the northern side of the Government Guest House facing the Mysuru-Bengaluru Road (Arch-2), have become a hindrance to the smooth movement of traffic and pedestrians. Besides being an eyesore, both structures appear to have lost their relevance as heritage structures.

a) Arch-1: Vehicles coming from the Sub-Urban Bus Stand, particularly KSRTC buses, as well as those coming from the Central Post Office on Irwin Road and proceeding towards Mini Vidhana Soudha/Hardinge Circle, have to take a U-turn in front of Old Bishop’s House. This is cumbersome for drivers and poses a risk to other road users, particularly because of the narrow roads on either side.

It is therefore suggested that Arch-1 be removed and a suitable traffic circle be developed on the adjoining roads, equipped with signal lights. This could facilitate smoother movement of vehicles and pedestrians, reduce congestion and help save fuel while minimising pollution caused by unnecessary diversions and U-turns.

b) Arch-2: This much-hyped heritage structure, on the other hand, appears to obstruct the view and detract from the appearance of the Government Guest House, which is considered one of the city’s architectural landmarks.

Although traffic signal lights have been installed at this location, motorists travelling from Nexus Mall and the SP’s Office towards Five Lights Circle and adjoining roads often pass through the gap between the arch and the entrance gate of the Government Guest House, ignoring the signals.

I suggest that Arch-2 also be removed and that the entrance to the Government Guest House be suitably modified, reconstructed or beautified to complement the existing structure. A suitable traffic circle could also be developed at the location, with a statue of an eminent personality such as Sir C.V. Raman, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam or Nadaprabhu Kempe Gowda.

The Government should take a balanced view of the demands and objections raised by heritage conservation groups, keeping in mind the safety of motorists and pedestrians and the overall traffic requirements of Mysuru city.

2. Immediate demolition of dilapidated building on Irwin Road. The widening of Irwin Road a few years ago was undertaken successfully to ease traffic congestion. However, an old and dilapidated building near the junction of K.T. Street continues to be a major bottleneck for the smooth flow of traffic.

It is understood that the owner of the building, reportedly an advocate, has challenged its demolition in Court, seeking compensation. Surprisingly, the case has remained pending for the past two to three years.

The authorities should take steps to resolve the matter within the framework of law and, if necessary, provide reasonable compensation to the owner before removing the structure. Similar action has reportedly been taken in the case of other landowners, including in connection with the mosque near the State Bank of India on the same road.

The continued delay in resolving the issue is causing inconvenience to road users and defeating the very purpose of widening Irwin Road.

3. Immediate installation of traffic signals near Bata Showroom on Sayyaji Rao Road. Traffic signals should be reinstalled near Bata Showroom on Sayyaji Rao Road, where their removal has, for several years, created traffic risks and encouraged violations by motorists.

Two-wheeler riders travelling from Visvesvaraya Circle, near the Government Medical College and Government Ayurveda College, and wishing to enter Dhanvanthri Road often take the wrong side of Sayyaji Rao Road to avoid travelling up to K.R. Circle and taking a U-turn.

Reinstalling traffic signals at Bata Showroom junction could help regulate traffic and minimise such violations. It would also make it easier and safer for pedestrians, particularly senior citizens, to cross the road.

The existing subway is largely unusable because of the narrow gaps provided between the dividers, forcing pedestrians to cross the busy road at considerable risk. I hope that the authorities will consider these suggestions and take appropriate action at the earliest in the interest of motorists, pedestrians and the general public.

— N. Suresh Prasad

Naidunagar

18.8.2026