RASTHE App: Bengaluru Teen Launches Swipe-Based Civic-Tech Platform to Fix Footpath Problems

Bengaluru's broken footpaths and chaotic walkways may soon face sharper public scrutiny thanks to a new civic-tech platform built by a teenager. Called RASTHE, the swipe-based app allows residents to report damaged pavements, blocked paths and pedestrian bottlenecks directly to BBMP officials.

The app, created by a 14-year-old Bengaluru student Surya Uthkarsha, is now going viral online for turning civic complaints into a simple, interactive experience similar to Tinder.

RASTHE allows users to swipe between two footpaths and decide which one looks better or worse. Residents can also upload photographs of damaged pavements, garbage piles, missing walkways and unsafe pedestrian zones across Bengaluru.

The idea behind the platform is summed up in one line shared by creator Surya: "Turn every citizen into a sensor for the city."

The Bengaluru teen introduced the platform on X with the line: "I fixed Bengaluru and traffic in 30 minutes."

Bengaluru, Rasthe is live 🔥

Now better than ever. We took your feedback and made the app even better with @10x_apps

This version now holds the authorities and BBMP accountable

Try it now : https://t.co/v21eucPwki

The mobile app version is up for review on the AppStore, the… https://t.co/GDjHeonrbb pic.twitter.com/uaXRIfd2pm

— Surya Uthkarsha (@SuryaUthkarsha6) May 21, 2026

'Tinder for Footpaths' Goes Viral

Unlike traditional civic complaint systems that often involve lengthy processes, RASTHE focuses on quick participation through swipe-based reporting and public voting.

Users can upvote the worst footpaths in their area, helping highlight stretches that may require urgent attention from civic authorities. The platform also allows people to nominate the best and worst walking routes in different neighbourhoods.

"If roads are built for cars, this is built for people," Surya wrote while explaining the concept behind the project.

The app aims to improve pedestrian movement and potentially reduce congestion by encouraging safer and more usable footpaths across the city.

Built by a 14-Year-Old Bengaluru Student

RASTHE has been developed by Surya, a student at National Public School, Bengaluru. Despite his age, Surya is already associated with multiple startup and AI initiatives.

According to details shared online, he runs a stealth startup supported by Emergent Ventures and serves as founding head of growth at Edza AI. He has also launched projects including The Marg Initiative and Roadyz while operating an AI-based tutoring service.

Surya claimed the platform was built in just 30 minutes using the app-building platform "10x Apps."

I fixed Bengaluru and TRAFFIC in 30 minutes.

Meet RASTHE: Tinder for Footpaths

A crowdsourced platform where you can:

• Report broken / missing footpaths directly to BBMP
• Swipe footpaths like Tinder
• Upvote the worst spots that need urgent fixing
• Turn every citizen… pic.twitter.com/5o0EE4dJVv

— Surya Uthkarsha (@SuryaUthkarsha6) May 19, 2026

Web Version Already Live

Users can upload images showing blocked pavements, construction debris, open drains and unsafe walking conditions. These reports are then displayed on a shared map and ward-level grid that can be viewed by residents and civic staff.

While the App Store version remains under review, Surya said the web-based version of RASTHE is already live.

The platform has triggered widespread discussion online about Bengaluru's pedestrian infrastructure, civic participation and how technology could help solve everyday urban problems faster.