There are many underbridges in Mysore which allow roads to cross under railway lines or other roads. A common feature of these underbridges is that they shrink the road, affecting the smooth flow of traffic. When they do not even permit the full width of the road, where will they find space for footpaths? As a result, pedestrians find it extremely dangerous to walk on these underbridges. It is almost impossible for the elderly and the infirm to use these underbridges.
The problem exists in the various level crossings in the city. There also there is no provision for pedestrians.
Do the engineers who design and build these underbridges and level crossings not aware of the danger posed by them? They do not seem to be learning from past experience, since even newer underbridges (such as Jawa) continue the same defective design.
Underbridges are expensive to construct. Therefore, they must be constructed only after making an estimate (as accurately as possible) on the quantum of traffice expected in 20-30 years and making allowance for this projected traffic density. Provision must also be made for pedestrians. Otherwise, these underbridges will become major accident spots.
Vasanth Kumar Mysoremath and D.V. Dayanand Sagar, members, Mysore Grahakara Parishat