Raining woes

Raining woes
Bangalore was flooded again. How much of it could have been averted? BT asks the experts
The Times of India


V Ravichandar Former member, BATF

Why is this happening?
The planning in CMC areas is hugely faulty. But even places within the city get flooded year after year. Check out newspaper reports of the past 5-6 years and you get a sense of deja vu — the same problems and the same discussions of projects to be undertaken. The main problem is lack of accountability. We have mastered the art of buckpassing.

What can be done?
We should start thinking seriously on setting up a Greater Bangalore Authority, which will have a cell on flood control. It will be the one-point contact for any flood-related problem. Also, citizens who litter and block drains should be penalised heavily.

Do you still have hope?
We live on hope. Unfortunately, the reality is such that only when the pin pricks are felt at the highest authorities, will things improve. We are still some distance from rock bottom. And my fear is that till we reach there, we will not react.


Ramesh Ramanathan Founder, Janaagraha

Why is this happening?
What we see today is part of the process of development of a city; we cannot plan before we grow. The Bangalore City Corporation (BCC) has identified what needs to be done, that’s strengthen the city’s drainage system. But what we don’t seem to do is prioritise properly.

What can be done?
We have limited resources to manage the city and the corporation’s aim should be to know where to spend the money. They have to decide what we need first — the National College flyover, coloured fountains in wards, or clear drains.

Do you still have hope?
We repose too much faith in the corporation. In a bustling metropolis like ours, the corporation cannot function effectively unless it’s de-centralised. Each of the 100 wards should be allowed to manage themselves. The BCC should focus on the bigger planning for the city.