Will BBMP Restructuring by September 15 Create Greater Bengaluru Authority?

Bengaluru, May 25 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that the restructuring of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is set to conclude by September 15, paving the way for the establishment of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA).

Shivakumar mentioned, "I will engage with the Leader of the Opposition, R. Ashoka, along with three to four additional MLAs. Following a comprehensive collection of feedback, the proposal will be presented to the state Cabinet for a final resolution," he stated on Saturday.

While addressing the press at Vidhana Soudha post a meeting regarding the Greater Bengaluru initiative, he elaborated: "A notification has been issued as of May 15 to facilitate the transition of BBMP into the GBA. We are mandated to set up new municipal bodies within 120 days."

He emphasized, "I have requested feedback from all Bengaluru MLAs concerning the number of corporations to be established. This will guide our decisions for future expansions. These new civic entities need to be formed by September 15."

The Deputy Chief Minister further stated that discussions had taken place with legislators from areas affected by rainfall, granting local officials the power to execute emergency operations.

"The necessary budget for this will be allocated by the state government," he added.

On the topic of water supply via tankers, Shivakumar remarked: "In regions where complaints have emerged, appropriate seasonal actions will be enforced."

Concerning street vendors, he stated: "We have resolved to clear all footpath shops in Bengaluru. Currently, 27,665 street vendors have registered, and we are prepared to supply pushcarts for them. They are to operate solely in the designated areas we specify. Out of these, 3,755 vendors have already requested pushcarts."

"Avoid exerting pressure through MLAs. The law does not permit it. Even if we cannot remove all at once, the process will be executed methodically, in phases," he added.

Addressing inquiries about road widening in the state, Shivakumar stated: "Discussions have occurred with MLAs. Wherever they recommend widening, TDR (Transfer of Development Rights) will be provided to property owners. MLAs should interact with them directly."

"We also deliberated on road construction in buffer zones adjacent to storm water drains. Approximately 300 km of road length has been identified, and MLAs can propose up to 300 km. Moving forward, basement parking will not be permitted in low-lying areas," he continued.

He noted that some MLAs reported optical fiber cables being laid through sewage and water drains.

"I have directed that such illegally laid cables be severed. Additionally, silt must be cleared from the drains," he stated.

Regarding property digitization, Shivakumar revealed: "We are in the process of scanning and digitizing 2.5 million properties across the city. Thus far, 500,000 properties have been digitized. This significant initiative aims to enhance transparency in tax collection and property records, and we have received the National e-Governance Award for this endeavor."

On the proposed sky deck, the Deputy CM noted: "We planned to construct the Sky Deck in Hemmigepura. However, due to the airport authorities' requirement for a 20 km clearance, we encountered challenges. Consequently, we have decided to build it on BDA land in Kempegowda Layout."

In response to complaints about abandoned vehicles on the roads, Shivakumar stated: "The Revenue Department has allocated 100 acres of land for the relocation of these vehicles. Traffic Police have been informed. According to municipal law, if a vehicle remains on the road for 21 days without movement, it is classified as abandoned and may be auctioned. No vehicle will be permitted to park in designated 'No Parking' zones as determined by the police."

On metro construction sites, he added: "We aim to merge service roads with main roads in areas where metro work is in progress to alleviate traffic congestion. This initiative will cover approximately 40–50 km of major roads, with MLAs being kept informed and in agreement."

When questioned about BJP leaders opposing the BBMP restructuring, Shivakumar responded: "They express one viewpoint publicly, but I am aware of their true sentiments when they come to me."

Regarding BJP leaders labeling the proposed tunnel road project as unfeasible, he stated: "Let’s wait and observe what unfolds when the tender is released."