Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has rejected the rising criticism over pothole-filled roads in Bengaluru, saying the matter is being exaggerated to target the Congress-led state government.
He described the spotlight on Bengaluru’s potholes as unfair and politically driven. According to him, road damage is a common problem across the country. Citing an example, he mentioned that even his own neighborhood in Delhi has many potholes within a short stretch, as reported by the Deccan Herald.
‘Mumbai also deals with same issue’
Shivakumar further noted that cities like Mumbai also deal with similar issues, yet Bengaluru is singled out. He believes this is mainly due to heavy media attention and attempts to undermine the Congress government in Karnataka.
Answering concerns raised by business leaders about poor road conditions, the Deputy CM suggested they raise their grievances with the central government. He questioned why the Union Government has not given adequate funds for Bengaluru’s infrastructure, despite Karnataka being the second-highest contributor of taxes to the Centre.
‘BJP stopped JNNURM funding’
He reminded that during the UPA government’s rule, Karnataka received major support through the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), which aimed at upgrading city infrastructure. That funding stopped after the BJP came to power, he alleged.
On the present situation, Shivakumar, who also handles Bengaluru’s urban development, said the state has introduced a mobile app for citizens to report potholes and ensure quicker repairs. He assured that a timeline is already in place to resolve the problem and that the Chief Minister has approved more funds. “We are fully committed to improving Bengaluru’s roads,” he stated.
When asked about Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh’s call for Bengaluru-based companies to move to his state, Shivakumar replied calmly. He said Andhra Pradesh is part of India and Lokesh is free to share his opinion.
