‘Bone-breaking’ roads leave Bengaluru man seeking Rs 50 lakh compensation from civic body

A 43-year-old resident of Richmond Town, Bengaluru, has served a legal notice to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), seeking Rs 50 lakh in compensation for alleged physical and mental distress resulting from poor road conditions across the city.

Dhivya Kiran stated in his notice dated May 14 that the broken, waterlogged and uneven roads have severely impacted his health. He claimed to have experienced continuous physical pain and emotional trauma due to BBMP’s alleged failure to maintain essential civic infrastructure.

Repeated medical treatment and continued distress

Kiran’s legal representative explained that his client’s condition has been medically associated with the frequent jerks and shocks experienced during daily commutes. According to the notice, Kiran consulted five orthopaedic specialists and made four emergency visits to St. Philomena’s Hospital, where he received injections and other treatments. He remains on regular medication to manage his symptoms.

The notice described his condition as serious, citing sleep deprivation, anxiety, and persistent pain, all of which have impaired his day-to-day functionality. Due to the discomfort, Kiran has reportedly stopped using auto-rickshaws and two-wheelers. Even cab travel, while comparatively smoother, remains uncomfortable. His personal and professional commitments have been affected as a result.

Legal notice demands compensation and action

Accusing BBMP of negligence, the notice demanded Rs 50 lakh in damages to cover physical suffering, mental trauma, medical costs and transportation expenses. An additional Rs 10,000 was sought as reimbursement for serving the legal notice.

The notice warned that in the absence of a response within 15 days, further legal steps would follow. These may include a civil suit for damages and the filing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL). Kiran may also approach the Lokayukta and the State Human Rights Commission to pursue further action.