Civic body committed to goals of Brand Bengaluru: new BBMP commissioner Maheshwara Rao
Newly appointed BBMP commissioner Maheshwara Rao Thursday announced that Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has asked him to work towards a 'Clean Bengaluru' mission.
Addressing the press in Bengaluru after a review meeting with all zonal commissioners, Rao said, 'In line with directions from the deputy chief minister, our priority is to work towards a clean Bengaluru. We have been carrying out extensive clean-up drives across all BBMP zones in the last one month. We will be intensifying this drive in the coming days.'
He added that directions will be given to civic authorities to clean up debris and minimise black spots, especially in crowded places like bus stands, railway stations, and market areas. On April 1, BBMP introduced a user fee for waste collection based on property size.
Rao said the civic agency is committed to the goals of Brand Bengaluru. 'We are working on improving the basic infrastructure needs, such as fixing potholes, tackling flood-prone areas, ensuring pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and related works,' said Rao.
The commissioner also reviewed monsoon preparedness with the zonal commissioners and engineers. He committed to clear encroachments and blockages in stormwater drains by the first week of June, ahead of the monsoon season. 'We have identified a total of 209 vulnerable spots that are prone to flooding under the BBMP zone. It includes areas like Nagawara, Nayandahalli, and Mahadevapura, among others, where floods are mostly reported. We are working closely with the revenue department to identify and clear encroachments wherever required. Directions have also been given to clear the stormwater drains to ensure… smooth passage of rainwater,' he said.
On fixing potholes, Rao stated that the civic agency has fixed 245 potholes this year and is yet to tackle 1,300 potholes.
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