Bescom told to remove transformers, wires obstructing footpaths | Bengaluru News

Bengaluru: Greater Bengaluru development minister Krishna Byre Gowda directed Bescom to prepare a comprehensive inventory of all electricity-related obstructions on footpaths across GBA areas and begin removing them as part of ‘Freedom from Waste’ campaign starting Aug 1.Reviewing Bescom infrastructure on footpaths during a virtual meeting Tuesday, the minister said old and damaged electricity poles, hanging wires, rods attached to transformers placed on footpaths endanger pedestrians. He instructed officials to relocate transformers obstructing footpaths and prepare both short- and long-term plans to permanently address such issues.The minister said several apartment complexes have installed transformers on public spaces, and directed Bescom to identify such cases, ask property owners to shift transformers within their premises.Bescom managing director Shivashankar said nearly 7,000 old transformers located on footpaths have already been replaced.Ahead of the Aug 1 launch of Freedom from Waste campaign, GBA chief commissioner Maheshwar Rao inspected several locations across north and west Bengaluru. Officials were directed to stop sewage from entering stormwater drains near Esteem Mall, clear debris and vegetation in KIADB and BDA lands, remove footpath encroachments in Mathikere and clear debris along Yeshwantpur-Tumakuru Road stretch.