Bengaluru footpaths: viral video shows obstacles as katte removal sparks debate

The Story in Brief

A viral video on Instagram shows a man walking through Bengaluru, documenting footpaths blocked by poles, parked motorcycles, shops, and construction debris. He asks how wheelchair users and parents with strollers can navigate such spaces, questioning the point of having pavements if pedestrians must walk on the road. Hindustan Times reports the clip drew widespread criticism of the city's pedestrian infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) is removing concrete platforms called 'katte' built around tree bases, citing a National Green Tribunal order against concretisation. Times of India reports the drive has split opinion: some residents see the katte as encroachments that block footpaths, while others call them valuable 'third spaces' for rest and socialising. GBA officials have cautioned that demolition should not harm tree roots.