Public apathy hurdle No 1 for BBMP, says Jairaj

Public apathy hurdle No 1 for BBMP, says Jairaj
Deccan Herald

BBMP Commissioner K Jairaj has said public apathy has been one of the major hurdles before the Palike.

BBMP Commissioner K Jairaj has said public apathy has been one of the major hurdles before the Palike.

Answering questions raised by students of journalism at a model press conference organised at Surana College here, Mr Jairaj said that people evade tax, litter in public places, allow unauthorised developers and then blame the Palike for poor service.

“If citizens understand their duties, Bangalore can be developed as the most livable city,” he said.

Mr Jairaj said there are 449 parks in the BBMP limits. The Palike is spending Rs 30 crore every year towards maintaining parks. “If education institutes come forward to adopt parks and look after their maintenance, the Palike will provide economic assistance,” he said.

Property tax evasion

On mobilising resources, Mr Jairaj said measures are being taken to check evasion of property tax. In the last one year, tax collection has risen by Rd 100 crore.

Similarly, solid waste management cess, which would amount to Rs 100 crore in a year, will be collected through the BWSSB.

He also stressed the need for vehicle tax of Rs 50 and Rs 100 from two-wheeler and four-wheeler owners respectively.