Bengaluru, Sep 23 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar, who oversees Bengaluru Development, ignited a debate by claiming that even the roadway adjacent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in Delhi is plagued by potholes.

During a press briefing on Tuesday about the deteriorating conditions of Bengaluru's roads, he stated, "We are actively addressing potholes. With the ongoing rains, we are filling approximately a thousand potholes daily throughout the city. My visit to Delhi revealed that the roads there, including the one outside the Prime Minister's home, are similarly affected by potholes."

He emphasized, "I have been communicating to major IT firms that this issue is widespread across the nation. The media should not imply that potholes are solely a problem in Karnataka. If the BJP had constructed quality roads during their governance, why would there be potholes now?"

Shivakumar further remarked, "They failed to address this issue in the past, and with elections approaching, they can say what they wish; we will persist in our responsibilities."

He added, "I am heading to Bihar. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and I will participate in the extended Congress Working Committee meeting on Wednesday, convened by AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi. We will return on the same flight after the meeting."

Previously, in the face of backlash over IT companies departing Bengaluru due to poor road conditions, Shivakumar stated, "No one can intimidate or blackmail the government. I will not obstruct anyone's departure."

On September 24, the BJP announced plans for a one-hour roadblock protest across all Assembly constituencies in Karnataka, including Bengaluru, regarding the state's inadequate road infrastructure.

In response to the IT companies' relocation due to poor road conditions, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy lamented, "The once-proud city of Bengaluru, founded by Nadaprabhu Kempegowda, is suffering a significant blow to its reputation. It is unfortunate that Bengaluru is now becoming known as the 'City of Potholes.'"

Kumaraswamy criticized, "Industries are losing trust in Karnataka and moving to neighboring states that are eager to seize this opportunity, offering various incentives to lure them. This insensitive government seems oblivious to the seriousness of this situation; it appears completely detached."

He concluded with an appeal to industries, "Please do not abandon Bengaluru. This city holds a rich heritage and legacy. Together, we will challenge this indifferent government. The people of Karnataka stand united with you. Dismiss the notion of leaving; we will restore Bengaluru together!"