Skip concrete, BBMP should cobblestone Bengaluru's iconic Church Street

The BBMP will be renovating Church Street under the TenderSURE project. The renovation work of the Church Street is planned to end with a durable concrete road. But perhaps this road will benefit from some character, which cobblestones certainly add.

After years of making do with bad infrastructure, the popular Church Street in Bengaluru is finally getting a make-over. Under the BBMP’s TenderSURE project, the agency will rebuild select roads in Bengaluru to match international standards in pathways. The aim is to make smooth roads and wide, well-designed walkways for pedestrians. Church Street has been chosen as one of the roads under this project and work will begin soon to improve this high-street in the city.

As per the plan, there will be properly built footpaths, well-designated bus stops, road signs, a water drainage system, parking bays and other improvements. The idea is to make the 650-metre stretch much better and durable. 

The work on Church Street will be done on each side by turns to ensure that traffic is not fully blocked. The work is expected to be completed by July this year. Interestingly, as per the BBMP's plan, the new Church Street will have a concrete surface and not the usual asphalt. Concrete enhances the durability of roads, so while constructing National Highways, this is the right choice to reduce construction costs.

But, for a high street like Church Street, a concrete surface might not the most desirable idea. Rather, this street should be converted into a cobblestone street to add beauty to this popular shopping and dining destination in the city. Bengaluru has a number of iconic roads, but many of them can be described as picturesque. Though the IT capital has adopted cosmopolitanism, its roads, especially the new high streets, are still are same. A unique road, like a cobblestone street, builds a unique charm to a place. 

So, now that the road is going to be completely rebuilt, perhaps it is time the BBMP consider options that enhance beauty and add character, at least for one or two roads. Church Street can be transformed into the perfect spot for a moonlight stroll on cobbles.