Civic groups that spearheaded the #SteelFlyoverBeda campaign have regrouped in a much larger coalition to oppose the proposed 102-km elevated corridor project.
A coalition of 51 citizen groups, including Citizens for Bengaluru (CfB), Citizen Action Forum (CAF), Environment Support Group (ESG), and over 20 Residents’ Welfare Associations have come together to stage a protest on Saturday.
In a contrast to the October 2016 steel flyover protests, which were criticised for lack of inclusivity, this time organisations representing garment workers, slum-dwellers and sex workers will be part of the movement. They will join hands for a protest rally at Maurya Circle on Saturday at 10 a.m. under the banner of #TenderRadduMadi.
“We expect Saturday’s protest to be massive as there has been an organic outpouring of support for the cause,” said Srinivas Alavilli of CfB.
The cause seems to have resonated with citizens. A change.org petition demanding cancellation of the tender for the first phase of the elevated corridor project is acquiring signatories by the minute. At last count, it had garnered 1,64,672 signatures.
“The petition has gone viral and the large coalition of diverse groups coming together to oppose the project is indicative of the public opinion. The government should pay heed to the people’s voice,” said Srinivas Alavilli.
Civic groups addressed a press conference on Thursday and appealed for more investment in public transport.
