India, Sept. 6 -- Dasara is here and the administration says it is ready to welcome Dasara tourists. But the truth is, our so-called 'Royal City' is in a 'Royal Mess.'

Our footpaths have turned into 'food-paths' while our circles and medians have turned into 'flex parks.'

The city administration has clearly lost control of its streets. Vendors occupy every corner, circle and sidewalk. They are cleared out only when a VIP comes visiting; once the VIP is gone, they are back.

Mysuru's streets resemble a sprawling supermarket where everything is available: From underwear to vegetables, sofa sets to mobile screens, tender coconuts to even crabs ! And one can buy all this without getting off their bike or car.

We have heard of drive-through...