Insulate PPP from political pressures

Insulate PPP from political pressures
Harish Bijoor, CEO, Harish Bijoor Consults
The Times of India


The perception about Bangalore is completely different from the ground reality. IT has provided some cover-up, though. Every city has its own set of problems, but all businesses go towards those cities that offer better work and cost efficiency.
There are five important kinds of infrastructure that a city must focus on — political infrastructure, social, economic, ethical and physical infrastructure like roads, traffic etc.
There are two kinds of Bangalore — the real and the virtual. A research showed 76% of the city’s population earns a monthly Rs 3,000 while 19% earn less than Rs 6,000. Both these cities — the real and virtual Bangalore — have a different set of angst.
I have some solutions for a better Bangalore. A Union Territory status could be a strong option. In this case, political devices are more focussed towards governance of cities in a homogeneous manner. Second, public-private partnership has to be insulated from political pressures. Third, we must have a role for the under-privileged in Bangalore. This could include people like rag-pickers who can play a key role in community policing, garbage management, etc.
Lastly, we must look at building a sensitive city. Nearly 38% of people living here are locals. They must be looked after, especially considering the cultural and language sensitivities.