Pramesh S Jain
It is not the shortage of projects, posts, officers or funds that affect Bengaluru. But, basic responsibility and accountability.
Unfortunately, some people seem to be immune from accountability and consider themselves above authority. Bengaluru’s administration appears to have nurtured a few such people.
Despite repeated instructions and warnings to concerned officials and contractors, and despite sufficient time being given to improve the functioning of street lights in Bengaluru, there appears to be little concern among few officers towards their very basic responsibility.
The other night, I noticed that 142 out of 222 street lights were not functioning on road from Hudson Circle to Mysore Bank Circle to Chalukya Circle.
This is a crucial road in the heart of Bengaluru, carrying hundreds of vehicles every minute. It connects to the bus stand, Majestic, Vidhana Soudha, the Civil Court complex, the residence of the Chief Justice, and several other important institutions and destinations.
Yet, such disregard right around the so called power center!
Fancy projects are conceived. Funds are allocated. Posts are created. Officers are appointed. Projects are implemented. Taxpayers’ money is spent.
Operation successful. Yet, basic service remains dysfunctional.
It is deeply painful to see such irresponsibility in what should be routine and basic government work. Street lighting is a basic municipal service, directly connected to public safety and the functioning of the city.
I have therefore asked the Chief Commissioner and the Commissioner of the Central Corporation to take action against officials who have failed to perform their basic responsibilities says Krishna Byre Gowda.
