Better coordination between different civic agencies needed, says new minister
K.J. George Bengaluru Development Minister
Bengaluru: It is not only the stench overflowing garbage, but Bengaluru has been facing many problems post 2007 following the inclusion of seven CMCs, one TMC and 111 villages in BBMP. In order to combat these problems and improve the standard of living of people of Bengaluru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has created a separate ministry and entrusted his trusted lieutenant and minister, K.J. George, with the task of development of Bengaluru.
George told Deccan Chronicle in an interview that he is preparing a vision document for Bengaluru city, and will release it within 10-15 days. Excerpts:
This city is plagued by many problems. So, what is your first priority?
Henceforth, I will monitor the progress of works taken up by BBMP and BDA. With the guidance and assistance of transport minister Ramalinga Reddy, I will focus on resolving the city’s problems. On Monday I have convened a meeting of BBMP officials and elected representatives. My first priority is to solve the problems of Bengaluru city. After hearing the grievances of BBMP officials, I will provide necessary assistance from the government.
Lack of co-ordination among various departments has hampered the city’s development. How do you plan to usher in better co-ordination among these departments?
Yes, there is lack of co-ordination among authorities in the city. A system will be evolved for better co-ordination among all departments. An online system has been introduced to seek permission for road cutting and other works.
What are the steps being taken to solve the garbage problem?
The government has decided to set up seven treatment plants in Bengaluru, of which four plants are already in operational stage. Once all the plants are operational, the garbage menace will be reduced drastically.
Construction activities are going on in a hazardous manner. How do you plan to regulate violations in construction activity?
We have brought Akrama–Sakrama scheme to regulate building bye-law violations. However, the court has stayed the notification. Regarding on going construction activities, I will discuss with officials and do whatever best possible to regulate them.
Do you have any vision document for development of Bengaluru city?
Yes, the vision document is already being prepared, but before finalising it I will discuss with all stake holders of Bengaluru city and take their feed back. In 10-15 days, I will come out with proper vision document for Bengaluru city.
You are in real estate business for many years. How do you plan to tackle conflict of interest in your work?
My business is not with state government, and the government is no way concerned about my business. I have a partnership in an IT park. If I start new projects, I have to seek necessary permission. There is no question of conflict of interest and I will not allow for conflict of interest to arise.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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