BENGALURU: Dr Rajkumar Khatri, who succeeded Mr T. Sham Bhat as the BDA commissioner, wants to take the Bengaluru Development Authority on a development path and aims to root out the menace of middlemen and deep-rooted corruption in the authority.
Mr Khatri, who has an MBBS and an MBA (Public Service International) and is a 1988-batch IAS officer, is a principal secretary rank officer. Dr Khatri spoke to Deccan Chronicle at length. Here are the excerpts…
Some of BDA projects, like the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) and flyovers, have been languishing for long. Will you put them on fast-track?
I have just taken charge as BDA commissioner and I lack in-depth knowledge on the status of various projects. But I am aware that projects like PRR and the flyovers are lingering for long. Land acquisition has been one of the major issues that is haunting the BDA to take up and complete projects. I will discuss with ministers and executives and explore the possibilities to fast track the projects that are in limbo.
The BDA is infested with middlemen who deal with alternative sites. The Lokayukta too has pointed to the infestation of middlemen. Your comments…
Frankly speaking, I discussed this issue with the officials on the first day while addressing my staff about the low credibility of the BDA. This is mainly because the BDA has not been able to reply positively to the needs and demands of the public. On corruption and middlemen, I don’t encourage middlemen loitering around and instill discipline and efficiency. I will make honest efforts to root out the nexus and middlemen infestation.
Over 8,000 allottees are still waiting for physical possession of their sites at Arkavathy Layout. How will you help them?
I have already sought details on these issues from the BDA legal department. I honestly need some more time to understand the intricacies. I will work towards solving the problems.
