Angry citizens in Bengaluru have threatened to withhold property tax payments due to poor roads and slow progress in filling potholes. Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar mentioned filling 13,000 potholes and a 1,100 crore rupee road plan.
Karnataka: A recent debate has erupted on social media regarding the state of infrastructure in Bengaluru. Citizens have expressed their frustration over increasing traffic congestion and the growing problem of potholes on roads. Some citizens have also warned that if the government does not take concrete steps to improve the city's infrastructure, they will stop paying property tax.
The anger of Bengaluru residents intensified when Biocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw commented on social media about the poor condition of the city's roads and waste management. Citizens reacted broadly to this, demanding that the government provide better and safer roads.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's Statement
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated that pothole filling and road repair work is progressing rapidly in Bengaluru city. He appealed to citizens to understand the collective responsibility for the city and to cooperate in improvement efforts instead of constant criticism.
Shivakumar informed that approximately 13,000 potholes have been filled so far, and the government plans to find a permanent solution to the city's road problems. He has instructed officials to prepare a 1,100 crore rupee action plan for the development of Bengaluru's 550 kilometers of main roads.
Citizens' Response
Meanwhile, a group of Bengaluru citizens has warned the government. The Property Tax Payers Forum wrote a letter to the Chief Minister stating that they would refuse to pay taxes if the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) does not provide better infrastructure.
In the letter, they specifically mentioned the incomplete, unscientific, and poorly coordinated road and stormwater drain works in the Varthur-Balagere-Panathur area. The forum states that families and children are suffering greatly due to poor civic infrastructure.
Permanent Solution to Road Problems
Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar said that the poor condition of the city's roads is not just a temporary issue, but a permanent solution is being sought. The government's plan includes comprehensive development of the road network, asphalting, and pothole repair. He also stated that citizens' safety and ease of traffic are being prioritized.
Other state ministers Priyank Kharge and M.B. Patil also acknowledged that the city's infrastructure needs improvement. They stated that it would take time to fix, but the government is making continuous efforts.
City Roads
Traffic congestion and poor roads in Bengaluru have become a major nuisance for citizens. During the monsoon season, the problem of potholes and waterlogging worsens, causing difficulties for motorists and pedestrians. Citizens say that pothole filling and road repair work should not be just temporary solutions but part of a long-term plan.
