From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network
Bengaluru, May 29: Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, who holds the portfolios of Bengaluru development in the Siddaramaiah cabinet, addressed senior BBMP officials on Monday and requested them to provide all videos, photos, and other documents pertaining to the works undertaken in all 28 assembly constituencies in Bengaluru.
In his first review meeting following the late-night allocation of portfolios, Shivakumar made it clear that he intends to assess the honesty of BBMP officials by verifying all the works carried out during the three-year tenure of the BJP in the State.
"I require assembly constituency-wise details of all the works, including the total estimated cost, amount spent, and documentary evidence such as videos and photos from the past three years, within the next 10 days. If you are unable to provide these details, I will obtain them myself," he stated, emphasizing his commitment to ascertain their honesty.
Shivakumar directed that any works sanctioned but not initiated or remaining incomplete beyond the specified time limit must be suspended immediately. He also requested the officials to furnish information regarding double billing or billing by multiple companies for the same project, as well as details of the funds released for pending works.
"Provide all the necessary information within 10 days. If you are unable to do so, I will take care of it personally. Although I come from a rural area and belong to a village, I am aware of what is happening and have my own sources of information about the city," he added.
The Deputy Chief Minister criticized BBMP officials for outsourcing tasks like road construction, repair, culvert maintenance, and drain clearance to external agencies. He questioned the need for their existence if they are unable to manage civic works on their own.
Shivakumar expressed his intention to personally inspect all the works and verify the reports submitted.
He instructed the officials to crack down on the illegal dumping of solid waste on the outskirts of the city, emphasizing the need to take strict action against those responsible. Levy fines and implement other penalties to eradicate this problem, he urged.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of adhering to the rules regarding the segregation of dry and wet waste and ensuring proper maintenance of the city. He warned that he would not tolerate any negligence in this regard.
Shivakumar emphasized that BBMP officials must ensure video or photo documentation before commencing any works.
He urged the officials to remain vigilant during the monsoon season and take necessary measures to prevent flooding and waterlogging. The government is fully supportive, as failure in this regard reflects negatively on everyone involved, particularly the BBMP officials and the government.
"BBMP is like a vast ocean. We are uncertain whether we will swim, sink, or drown in it," he remarked, urging the officials to work with dedication and unwavering commitment.
"I am not under the illusion that I can work wonders by myself. I seek your wholehearted support and cooperation," he stated, reiterating his determination to eradicate corruption in BBMP, as fighting corruption remains the Congress party's primary goal.