Bengaluru: Trapped in a financial crisis, the BBMP is taking tech-savvy measures to ensure there are no loopholes in the system. So come December 1, the BBMP will make all financial transactions, online.
The move comes after many corporators had raised their voices against misappropriation of funds. They alleged that funds released for work were diverted towards pending bills, hampering several projects in the process.
So, the BBMP will introduce online payments and has directed the accounts departments’ officials to maintain a cash register every day.
Addressing reporters during a departmental review meeting on Friday, N. Shanthakumari said, a department-wise meeting in the presence of corporators, standing committee members and commissioner would be held once in 10 days.
“Complaints can be discussed and addressed on the spot when all the parties concerned are present together. Such meetings will enhance the efficiency of the BBMP,” she said, adding that FBAS (fund-based accounting system) would henceforth be compulsory.
Appreciating the initiative, BBMP commissioner M.Lakshminarayan said an updated cash register should be submitted to the mayor by 12 pm on Saturday.
“There is a need to maintain records as BBMP receives funds from the government and generates its own revenue. There are chances of cash getting diverted instead of being utilised for its original purpose.
We need to keep track of the funds spent on different works and online transactions will ensure transparency,” he said, adding that the software was ready and would be implemented by December 1.
Mr Lakshminarayan warned that disciplinary action would be taken against officials who were not maintaining cash registers.
The BBMP has decided to transfer all the workers in the Chief Accounts Officer’s department who have been serving for more than three years.
“Irrespective of the designation, all the employees who have completed a term of three years will be transferred,” he said.
