Not enough for infrastructure, say Bangaloreans

Not enough for infrastructure, say Bangaloreans

The Hindu

BANGALORE, MARCH 11. Infrastructure development in the city seems to be topmost in the minds of Bangaloreans, who feel that enough is not being done to develop roads, streamline traffic and improve basic facilities such as power and water.

The State Budget this year has received mixed responses from the citizens. This is what they had to say:

"The Rs. 40 crores allotted for improvement of roads in and around Bangalore in not adequate. There needs to be a lot of improvement in infrastructure and the Government should have allotted much more for developing roads," says Sundar, a real estate consultant from J.P. Nagar.

He feels that introduction of Value-Added Tax (VAT) is a welcome move, as the new regime would bring all the taxes under one single entity. Support to private agencies for power production is a good thing," he said.

Basic amenities

Krishnamurthy, a government employee however disagrees. "The implementation of VAT will increase the tax burden on consumers. The old system was better," he says.

"What people need is water, power, infrastructure and education. The Government should take steps to effectively provide these basic amenities. The Common Entrance Test (CET) imbroglio has been exhausting for the students. Even though the opening of new medical colleges may provide some relief, the only solution to the problem is central legislation for admission to professional courses. This will help merit students who cannot afford to pay huge amounts as fees. Support to private power producers may facilitate better power supply."

Metro Rail

Revanna, an autorickshaw driver seems to have lost all faith in the Government. "Whatever the politicians do, they have their vested interests in mind. What we need is better roads, hospitals, basic amenities such as water and power. But nothing is being done in this direction."

He welcomed the allotment of Rs.109 crores for the Metro Rail project. "It will decongest the traffic and also help daily commuters," he added.

Satellite towns

Kitty Thanikaimani, a former resident of Pondicherry, who has now made Bangalore her home, feels satellite towns should be developed on the outskirts of Bangalore to divert the increased construction activity and traffic inside the city. There is no space inside the city but it is being crammed with new buildings and projects. Parking is also a problem. If satellite towns are developed in the periphery, it will ease the pressure on the city," she said.

"Considering Bangalore is being developed as a hi-tech city and is attracting lot of foreign investment, the Government should take adequate measures to tackle the chaotic traffic and improve the roads," she added.

Hi-tech parks

Krishnappa, another government employee, said Information Technology (IT) and bio-technology (BT) is what will make Bangalore famous. So it is good that the Government is investing in hi-tech parks and promoting these disciplines. It will also help in bringing down unemployment.

Metro Rail will support the cause of developing Bangalore as a hi-tech city, he said.