Author: Sneha Ramesh
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) in Bengaluru is considering revising its registration rules for paying guest (PG) accommodations to increase compliance among owners. Currently, only 2,500 PG accommodations are registered with the Palike, despite estimations suggesting there are around 10,000 in the city. This lack of registration poses safety risks, as unregistered PGs may compromise security standards. BBMP Special Commissioner for Health, Suralkar Vikas Kishore, confirmed that the civic body is reviewing the requests from PG owners to ease certain rules. One specific regulation under scrutiny is the space per resident requirement, which PG owners argue is impractical. They…
In a recent announcement, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized the importance of ensuring round-the-clock medical services at the Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research (SJICR). He pledged the government’s support in providing the necessary resources and manpower to maintain continuous operations at the institute. During the groundbreaking ceremony at the KC General Hospital, Siddaramaiah directed health department officials to implement budget programs and establish trauma care centers near accident-prone areas. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao revealed plans to introduce 65 dedicated ambulances for accident victims. Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar proposed the handover of BBMP hospitals to…
In Bengaluru, there are 62 bridges in urgent need of strengthening, as highlighted by the Planning and Road Asset Management Centre (PRAMC) almost two years ago. Despite reports, the government has not approved the necessary rejuvenation works. Karnataka Road Development Corporation Ltd (KRDCL) officials have conducted soil studies and submitted detailed feasibility reports based on PRAMC findings but are yet to receive a response from the finance department. PRAMC emphasizes the critical condition of some bridges, suggesting immediate attention. The estimated cost for strengthening these bridges stands at Rs 1,380 crore, potentially delaying the project due to funding constraints. These…
Stray animals, including cattle and dogs, are causing traffic obstructions and accidents on major roads in Bengaluru, according to the Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP). The BTP has urged the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to address this issue promptly. M N Anucheth, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), emphasized the seriousness of the problem, stating that stray animals pose a significant risk to motorists. Avoiding stray cattle, especially cows, has become a daily challenge for commuters like Alice John, who stresses the need for a balance between safety and respect for the animals. Officials from the BBMP’s Animal Husbandry Department acknowledged…
Bengaluru’s power consumption and consumer base are on the rise, leading to a nearly 300% surge in revenue demand within the Bescom jurisdiction over the last decade. From Rs 11,560 crore in 2013-14, the revenue demand has soared to Rs 34,945.16 crore by 2023-24. The growth in power consumption is attributed to the rapid expansion of industries and a significant increase in residential connections. The proliferation of household devices such as air conditioners, TVs, refrigerators, and electronic gadgets has further fueled electricity consumption. Year-on-year power tariff revisions have also contributed to the revenue demand spike, with a 25% increase in…
Revolutionizing Bengaluru’s Municipal Corporation: A New Three-Tier System The Bengaluru municipal corporation is on the brink of a major transformation with the introduction of a three-tier system. The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) will lead the way, with corporations and wards forming the second and third tiers. This innovative approach aims to streamline governance and enhance efficiency. Under this new structure, each corporation will resemble Parliament, with a mayor, deputy, and cabinet members. The conventional standing committee system will be replaced, giving more power to the municipal authority for property tax collection and utilization. The restructuring committee is proposing five corporations…
Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure in Bengaluru is undergoing a significant transformation with Bescom’s latest initiative to set up 20 battery-swapping stations in the city. While traditionally focusing on EV charging stations, Bescom is now adapting to the changing technology landscape by embracing battery swapping, a technology gaining popularity in the market. The move comes as a response to the increasing number of new EV models that utilize battery-swapping technology. By partnering with private operators in a public-private partnership model, Bescom aims to promote the adoption of EVs, particularly in the two- and three-wheeler category. Experts believe that mainstreaming battery swapping…