Bengaluru: The new commissioner to the BBMP, G. Kumar Naik, has said that his focus will be on streamlining and augmenting revenue generation in the city. Taking charge as the 61st commissioner and 10th BBMP commissioner on Monday, he said that one of his priorities would be to redress public grievances. In an interview to Deccan Chronicle, Mr Naik said he would strive to bring back the sobriquet of garden city by improving green cover.
Excerpts:
The financial position of the BBMP is bleak. How do you propose to improve it?
The emphasis will be on strengthening BBMP’s revenue collection. The expenditure will be streamlined and the focus will be on spending in a disciplined manner. At the same time, we also aim at ensuring better service delivery for the citizens. I am happy to serve the citizens of Bengaluru.
With the BBMP Council superceded and trifurcation of BBMP imminent, do you think your tenure as commissioner is crucial?
It is crucial and advantageous. Every minute is important as the needs of the public, in terms of transportation, water and electricity, have to be delivered. Whether the elected body is in place or not, my posting as commissioner to the BBMP is incidental. I am here to deliver solutions to public.
There is already a shortage of water. The situation is likely to get aggravated in the coming days. How are you planning to tackle it?
I still have to learn about this issue. I have already discussed it with the outgoing commissioner M. Lakshminarayan, and he has apprised me of the measures taken. Suitable action will be initiated to resolve the problems. I will set an example in resolving public grievances.
What are your priorities?
Ending solid waste management crisis and completing ongoing projects speedily. Transparency and accountability will not be ignored.
