BangaloreOne yet to deliver on promises

BangaloreOne yet to deliver on promises
Deccan Herald

It has been over a year since BangaloreOne set shop as a one-stop billing centre for public utilities, but it is yet to deliver on its promises.

Some of the high demand services, like issue of katha certificates and renewal of passport, are still not available at the centres. Though payment of Bescom and BWSSB bills are accepted, the statement of accounts for the same are not provided. Similarly, while payment of property tax for residential properties is accepted, property tax for commercial properties is not collected.

“We have many people coming in for payment of bills and purchase of passport applications. However, there are a few services that are listed, but not yet provided for. These are under discussion and they will be given soon,” said Santosh, manager of the Jayanagar centre.

Customers in sync

While all 14 centres have seen a phenomenal rise in customers over the year, the busiest seem to be the branches at Airport Road, JP Nagar, Malleswaram and Rajajinagar, which cater to up to 1000 customers a day.

As for customers, most seemed satisfied with the services, but were nonetheless expecting more out of these centres. “We want BangaloreOne to provide facilities for sale of stamp papers of lower denomination between Rs 5 to Rs 200 and income tax return forms. There should also be a one window collection point for taxes like sales tax and professional tax,” said Syed Aleem, a resident of Jayanagar.

“The centres collect cash only between 8 am to 8 pm, they accept debit or credit cards during late hours. This can sometimes pose a problem. I feel they should accept both cash and card at all times,’ suggested Neha, an engineering student.

“The centres assist in renewal of learner’s licence, but not of driving licence. Perhaps this service can reduce our burden of going to RTO offices,” added Sanjay Rao from Basavanagudi.

BMTC passes shortly

Bangalore One is planning to issue BMTC bus passe in a month’s time. Even collection of Airtel bills will be provided soon. The centres already accept payment of Tata Indicom, Reliance and Spice bills.

NOT “CURRENTLY AVAILABLE”

BESCOM: Statement of account for electricity bills

BWSSB: Statement of account for water bills

Bangalore Police: Collection of challans

RTO: Collection of road tax for transport vehicle, Payment against RTO challan.