Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, has issued a stern warning to officials responsible for Bengaluru’s pothole-ridden roads. He has set a 15-day deadline for the city’s civic body, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), to fill all potholes, failing which he has threatened “merciless action”.

A City Plagued by Potholes

Bengaluru, a bustling metropolis, faces a recurring problem with potholes that cause damage to vehicles and pose a safety hazard to pedestrians. This issue has generated considerable public outcry, with residents highlighting the inconvenience and potential accidents resulting from the lack of road maintenance.

The 15-Day Deadline: A Tightrope Walk

To address this mounting issue, Shivakumar has taken a decisive approach by setting a tight 15-day deadline for the BBMP to rectify the situation. He has held a meeting with senior officials, engineers, and the BBMP, demanding a swift resolution to the pothole issue. Shivakumar has asserted that all 400 staff engineers are to prioritize pothole filling over any other tasks.

“Merciless Action” for Failure to Comply

Shivakumar has made it explicitly clear that failure to meet the deadline will result in disciplinary action. He has hinted at suspensions, with the threat of action ranging from low-ranking officials to higher management. He has stated that officials, from the top to bottom, are to be personally accountable and ensure that the work is completed within the allotted time.

On-Site Supervision for Accountability

To ensure the officials are held accountable, Shivakumar has announced that he will personally inspect the city’s roads after the 15-day deadline. This direct oversight intends to gauge the effectiveness of the corrective measures and the extent of compliance from the officials.

Beyond Potholes: Addressing Safety Concerns

While potholes are the immediate concern, Shivakumar has also emphasized the importance of addressing other safety hazards in the city. He has directed the forest department of the BBMP to undertake tree trimming to prevent tree fall incidents, especially during the upcoming rainy season. He acknowledges the potential for heavy rainfall in the coming months and has stressed the need for effective and efficient management of rain-related issues like water logging and flooding.

Focus on Cleanliness: Gandhi Jayanti Pledge

Taking a broader approach to civic duty, Shivakumar has announced a city-wide cleanliness initiative to coincide with Gandhi Jayanti on October 2nd. All schools in Bengaluru, including both public and private institutions, will administer a cleanliness oath to their students, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clean surroundings. This pledge signifies the government’s desire to cultivate a sense of responsibility and community participation towards the city’s well-being.

Balancing Personal and Public Roles

Despite the urgency of civic issues, Shivakumar has disclosed his upcoming week-long personal trip abroad. He has assured the public that the trip is solely for family purposes and does not involve any official meetings or engagements. This transparency attempts to address any potential concerns regarding a lapse in focus during his absence, emphasizing his commitment to public service.

Take Away Points:

• Shivakumar has shown strong leadership by setting a concrete deadline for addressing the long-standing pothole issue.
• His strict warning and the threat of “merciless action” highlight the urgency and seriousness with which he views the problem.
• His approach goes beyond just potholes and encompasses wider issues of city safety and hygiene.
• His initiative to involve students in a cleanliness pledge on Gandhi Jayanti demonstrates the government’s desire to promote civic consciousness.
• Shivakumar’s transparency regarding his personal trip reassures the public that he is dedicated to his responsibilities despite his temporary absence.