Bengaluru's Infrastructure Crisis: Pressure Mounts on Karnataka Government

The Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, D K Shivakumar, insisted that the state government is committed to permanently addressing Bengaluru's infrastructure problems. His statements followed critiques from industry figures like Mohandas Pai and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, who recently urged urgent state intervention after BlackBuck moved operations citing infrastructure issues.

The IT corridor on the Outer Ring Road frequently faces congestion. Shivakumar confirmed that steps are being taken to improve road infrastructure, noting that a meeting to address these issues had taken place, with officials tasked with drafting an action plan. A significant meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is scheduled to further discuss these concerns.

Shivakumar dismissed threats or blackmail as ineffective pressures on the government, emphasizing Bengaluru's appeal to Fortune 500 companies and international talent. Criticism also came from Union Minister H D Kumarswamy, who targeted the Congress government over what's becoming known as the "city of potholes." Shivakumar criticized the central government for allegedly neglecting Karnataka's needs.

(With inputs from agencies.)