Bengaluru: BJP city unit spokesperson N. R. Ramesh is not only fighting against the expensive white topping project across the city, but has gone a step ahead to prove that white topping can be done at a much cheaper price tag!
“I am not here to oppose any project, be it white topping, TenderSure, elevated corridor or Solid Waste Management (SWM). But I cannot tolerate public money being wasted in the name of some unwanted projects. Projects should serve the purpose and benefit the public,” he said.
A stretch in Yediyur ward – from Armugam Modaliar Road to Da.Ra. Bendre Road – will be taken up for road widening to prove that white topping can be done at a much lesser cost or with additional specifications.
The work will be taken up next week and Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa will lay the foundation stone. White topping will be done in just two months without inconveniencing the public, Mr. Ramesh said.
“I am totally against white topping as it is not environment friendly. There is no scope for percolation of water. But, I am making sure that every 10 metres of the road has rainwater harvesting pit. The road will also have ducts for utilities,” he said.
“The white topping project is a scam and it has been exposed. Complaints have been filed at the ACMM court and Lokayukta. Following a complaint to the chief minister on the criminal waste of public money, the third phase of the project has been cancelled. However, first two phases that have been left incomplete will be completed. The project will be probed to book those who have siphoned off the public money,” Mr Ramesh said.
It has been observed that Rs 257 crore has been billed without even completing shifting of utilities. 56 per cent of the project cost for utility shifting it way too high and can be done at much cheaper price, he said, adding that he would prove how it can be done cheaper at Yediyur ward, which is represented by his wife Poornima Ramesh.
