Rs 2,000 cr for city roads

Rs 2,000 cr for city roads
BBMP is happy with the allocation, but some question the focus on ‘important’ roads
BANGALORE MIRROR BUREAU


For Bangaloreans who are used to travelling on pothole-ridden roads, Yeddyurappa’s budget had a pleasant surprise: a Rs 2,000-crore programme for upgrading important roads in the BBMP area.
These roads will be developed and maintained under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. Noticeably pleased, BBMP commissioner S Subramanya said, “The government has been very generous and we are very happy with the allocation. Right now, our next step is to see which are the roads that need improvement and how best to use the amount.” For BBMP’s other developmental work, a budgetary allocation of Rs 500 crore has been made.
VOTE CATCHER
The largesse for city roads is obviously targeted at urban voters, whom the BJP considers its vote bank. But not everyone is enthused. “When you look at the numbers, it may look big but it is actually a small amount. Almost all city roads need a makeover. I do not know which roads they will decide on,” said Shivram, a hardware businessman.
Kartik Parbhu, a student, welcomed the decision, saying, “With more MNCs making Bangalore their destination, infrastructure has to be improved.” However, cost accountant Lester was critical about the announcement.”Are they crazy? What are important roads according to them? When the other roads are so pathetic, why should only the important roads be upgraded every now and then?” he asked.
On the other hand, experts feel the allocation is “too much” for a single city. “The allocation should have been made in a phased manner. The budget is presented every year, not once in five years,” said Lt Col Palani Raj (retired), an engineering consultant.
SHARE FOR BDA
BDA too has got Rs 800 crore for development work and that has increased expectations. Ramesh Shivram, working as a director for Asia operations of US-Australia Pvt Limited, said, “The allocation for BDA is really good. It all boils down to BDA as it is always over-spending and under-delivering.”
On the drinking water front, the government has decided to release Rs 300 crore to augment water supply under the Rs 3,384 crore 4th Phase 2nd Stage project, started with assistance from Japan Bank for International Corporation.
MEGA SPEND
BBMP
Rs 500 crore for development work, apart from Rs 2,000 crore for the up gradation of roads in Bangalore
BDA
Rs 800 crore, and Rs 700 crore for the Peripheral Ring Road
BWSSB
Rs 300 crore for the JPIC programme, Rs 600 crore for underground drainage work and Rs 100 crore for providing recycled sewage water