DCM says 70% encroachment cleared, 44 flood-prone projects underway; slams opposition for neglecting rain-hit zones during their tenure
Bengaluru: Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has assured a permanent solution to the rain-related problems in Bengaluru, while launching a scathing attack on the previous BJP government for alleged negligence. Speaking after a city inspection tour with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar said that critical relief works were underway to address flood-prone areas in the city.
“A permanent solution will be provided to the problem being faced by Bengaluru due to rain. No work was done during the BJP government. Let the opposition criticize; we will continue our work. Ultimately, criticism dies and only work remains,”
said D.K. Shivakumar, addressing the media.
The remarks came after a high-level field visit to rain-affected zones in the city by both CM and DCM, followed by a detailed press briefing.
Relief Work and Progress Report
Shivakumar revealed that of the 211 flood-prone areas previously identified, the government has managed to reduce the count to 166. Out of the 44 works still pending, 24 are in progress, and strict instructions have been issued to expedite the rest.
“The number of affected areas has reduced. Citizens need not worry. Our government and officers are working to give a new face to Bengaluru,”
he added.
He also accused BJP MLAs of neglecting their constituencies, stating that problems persist only in BJP-led areas, whereas Congress MLAs have acted swiftly to resolve local issues.
Encroachment and Road Development
Addressing one of the major concerns — encroachment on stormwater drains and low-lying areas, Shivakumar said that 70% of encroachment clearance is already complete, and the remaining will be handled shortly.
“What did BJP do about encroachment during their tenure? Many encroachers took court orders. Still, I’ve instructed officials to proceed with clearance,”
said the DCM.
Shivakumar also spoke about inspecting former minister Aravind Limbavali’s constituency, where a 150-foot road widening proposal is under review.
“Photos and videos of the affected areas have been sought. This road will be widened under disaster management control. The issue will be discussed in the cabinet,”
he said, confirming that the BMRDA has already issued two relevant notifications.
Policy on Basement Parking and Urban Planning
In response to a question about recent accidents in basements that flooded due to rain, Shivakumar said the government is working on a new policy to restrict basement parking in low-lying areas after consultation with the Chief Minister and the Urban Planning Authority.
“A life was lost due to water pumping from a basement. We will frame a policy to prevent basement parking in low-level zones.”
He added.
Key Takeaways:
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211 rain-affected zones identified → reduced to 166
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44 projects pending → 24 in progress
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70% encroachment clearance completed
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150-ft road widening proposal under BMRDA notification
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New urban policy to prevent basement parking in low-lying areas
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