Traffic near Budigere, on the outskirts of Bengaluru and under the jurisdiction of Channarayapatna Police Station, was significantly disrupted on Thursday due to a protest by local residents. The demonstrators blocked the main road, pressing the government to address long-standing demands, particularly the improvement of local road infrastructure.
Authorities reported that vehicles traveling from Budigere Cross toward Kempegowda International Airport are being diverted to prevent traffic congestion and ensure safety. Commuters heading to the airport have been urged to follow alternative routes to avoid delays.
Alternative Routes for Airport-Bound Vehicles
According to the advisory issued by local traffic authorities, motorists traveling to the airport from Budigere should:
- Take a left turn at Mandur.
- Proceed to Kammasandra Circle and take a right turn.
- Continue through Gundur, Marasandra, and Bagalur before reaching the airport.
Authorities emphasize that following this route will help avoid the blocked main road and reduce travel delays for passengers catching flights.
Context: Bengaluru Traffic Woes
This protest comes at a time when Bengaluru is already grappling with heavy traffic, exacerbated by seasonal rainfall. A day earlier, on Wednesday evening, the city witnessed massive traffic snarls after a heavy downpour affected several parts of the urban area.
The Outer Ring Road (ORR) stretch from Silk Board to Hebbal was particularly impacted. The sudden downpour coincided with peak rush hour, leaving vehicles stranded for hours. Traffic moved at a crawl through waterlogged junctions and congested lanes, frustrating thousands of commuters.
Bikers were seen taking shelter under flyovers and metro bridges to avoid the rain, while drivers struggled to navigate knee-deep water in parts of the city. Many cars and buses were stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, and some drivers switched off their engines to conserve fuel during prolonged delays.
Commuters shared their experiences on social media, posting images and videos of flooded stretches and stranded vehicles, highlighting the challenges of navigating Bengaluru’s roads during extreme weather.
Advisory for Travellers
Passengers traveling to Kempegowda International Airport from areas near Budigere are advised to:
- Start their journey earlier than usual to account for potential delays.
- Follow the recommended alternative route via Mandur, Kammasandra Circle, Gundur, Marasandra, and Bagalur.
- Stay updated with real-time traffic advisories through local traffic police handles or GPS navigation apps.
Authorities continue to monitor both the protest and traffic conditions closely and have deployed personnel to manage diversions and ensure smooth movement. Commuters are urged to remain patient and follow instructions to avoid congestion or accidents.
With the city’s rapid urban growth and recurring seasonal rains, authorities have highlighted the importance of maintaining updated traffic management plans and alternative routes for airport commuters and other critical transit corridors.
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