Manipal: Even though it is located close to the well-known town of Manipal, the 17th Eshwar Nagar ward continues to face several infrastructure issues, residents said.
The area, which stretches from Narasinge to Babbu Swamy Temple, Tiger Circle, post office, and Venugopal Swamy Temple, has over 750 houses along with companies, banks, and commercial establishments. However, basic facilities remain inadequate.
Residents have pointed to the absence of a proper bus stand, poor drainage system, leaking drinking water pipelines, narrow internal roads, and lack of public toilets as major concerns. Problems such as parking shortage and insufficient street lighting have also been reported.
No proper bus stand at Tiger Circle
Tiger Circle, considered an entry point to Manipal, does not have a designated bus stand. Buses stop on the road, causing traffic congestion. Residents have demanded a well-equipped bus terminal in the area.
The road leading to the nearby petrol bunk is also in poor condition.
Waste management concerns
While the ward promotes a clean environment through regular community cleaning drives, several garbage bins installed by the municipal body have reportedly gone missing in some areas.
Water supply issues
Although the Varahi water supply scheme has improved access to drinking water, leakages in old pipelines continue to be a problem in elevated areas such as Trishanku Nagar and nearby residential zones.
Narrow internal roads
Main roads have been widened over time, but internal roads remain narrow, making it difficult for vehicles to pass from both directions. Roads leading from Eshwar Nagar junction to Narasinge and Trishanku Nagar are particularly congested.
Key demands by residents
Residents have sought the construction of a proper bus stand, organised parking facilities, a public toilet, and a drinking water unit. They have also demanded development and maintenance of Pandavara Kere, and better road connectivity to nearby areas.
There are also calls for a community hall, improved street vendor spaces, and a taxi stand.
Other concerns
Residents highlighted issues such as stray cattle theft, stray dog menace, and lack of scientific drainage planning. Traffic movement is affected due to roadside parking on main roads.
Some residents have also raised concerns about anti-social activities in vacant hill areas and have demanded increased police patrolling.
Streetlight problems have made movement difficult after dark, residents added.