KBG launches ‘Ward One’ initiative

The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) is planning a comprehensive makeover of the Central Silk Board Junction after Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda directed officials to prepare a permanent development plan for the busy traffic hub.

He said that the plan should focus on improving traffic movement, pedestrian facilities, and public spaces. Mr. Gowda issued the directions during an inspection of the junction on Saturday and symbolically launched the ‘Ward One’ campaign by initiating the painting of the flyover pillars.

The campaign would be rolled out across 43 wards under the five city corporations. It would focus on improving major junctions and ward-level infrastructure. He said the Silk Board junction had emerged as a major traffic hub, with several projects, including the metro, flyover, Outer Ring Road, and the NHAI elevated road, converging there.

He noted that lakhs of commuters use the junction every day. Mr. Gowda instructed GBA officials to earmark funds for the junction’s overall development. The space beneath the flyover would be developed into a public area with seating and recreational facilities.

A throwball court would also be developed, while facilities for table tennis were also being explored. A public toilet and improved footpaths are among the other proposed amenities. Officials have been directed to install a steel grid over the stormwater drain.

A pedestrian walkway would also be developed alongside the drain. During the inspection, he pulled up Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) officials after noticing sewage flowing into the stormwater drain. He also directed officials to plan a new drain from the Silk Board Junction towards HSR Layout to prevent flooding during heavy rains and coordinate the work with the ongoing white-topping project.