Hundreds of traders on D.V. Gundappa Road in Basavangudi downed their shutters for over six hours on Tuesday protesting against the sudden decision of the traffic police to make the entire stretch one-way.
The protesters, led by Basavangudi Shop Owners’ Association president T.S. Saravana, said the move would not only hurt their business, but will also inconvenience the public.
Following the protest, the police said they have shelved the plan for the time being
A few months ago, the traffic police had turned the 1.5-km stretch from the Nettakallappa Circle till the Mallikarjuna temple into one-way, but relented following a request from the association.
‘Politically motivated’
Alleging that the sudden turnaround was politically motivated, Mr. Saravana said the fact that the move to “harass” both traders as well as shoppers came during the festive season was highly suspicious.
DVG Road, with its 50-metre width, walkable footpaths and space for parking on one side even with two-way traffic is a popular commercial hub for south Bangaloreans.
“We have withdrawn the decision to convert the road into one-way till the end of Deepavali. A decision will be taken after holding discussions with the public. Our concern is public safety, but we faced opposition from shopkeepers who fear their business will be affected,” said a Basavangudi police officer.
