Bengaluru’s Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is facing backlash over its decision to dig newly asphalted roads, initiating a costly white-topping project. Critics are labeling the move as an unnecessary expenditure, raising questions about the civic body’s priorities.
Documents reveal that on February 2, 2024, the BBMP issued work orders for the asphalting of seven roads in Chamarajpet, while simultaneously launching a tender for white-topping those same roads. The targeted roads include significant routes such as 2nd Main Road, 3rd Main Road, and Albert Victor Road, which were already subjected to a ₹23 crore comprehensive development project including drains and footpaths.
The tenders for this prior project were awarded to Star Infratech, which has since completed the work. However, just months after the asphalting, the BBMP issued a new work order to JMC Constructions Private Limited on June 20, 2024, for white-topping, estimated to cost ₹98 crore. This rapid expenditure raises eyebrows as it indicates an additional investment in roads that had just been renewed.
This decision followed a request from Chamarajpet MLA, B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan, who urged the BBMP to prioritize the white-topping project in a letter dated October 26, 2023. Mr. Ahmed was not available for comment on the ongoing situation.
Community Response
The move has been heavily criticized by local leaders, including Sriramegowda, President of Chamrajpet Nagarikara Okkuta. He argued that the BBMP is violating its own regulations, which stipulate a three-year ban on road digging post-completion. He urged the BBMP to retract the work order for the white-topping project, highlighting the apparent waste of resources.
Investigation Launched
In response to the growing outcry, Chief Civic Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath has instructed the engineer-in-chief of the BBMP to investigate the matter further.
Published on December 23, 2024, 10:36 PM IST
