Bengaluru: Karnataka Lokayukta Justice B.S. Patil on Thursday conducted a comprehensive on-site inspection of various rain-affected areas within the jurisdiction of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). He was accompanied by Upa Lokayukta Justice K.N. Phanindra and Upa Lokayukta Justice B. Veerappa.
They visited several critical locations, including Silk Board Circle, where drainage work is currently being undertaken by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), the road expansion project near Panattur S-Cross, the construction of a railway underbridge on Panattur Main Road, managed by BBMP, Areas in Sai Layout that have suffered significant rain damage, the stormwater drain running through Manyata Tech Park.
During the inspection, the Lokayukta observed that the stormwater drain near Silk Board Circle was obstructed, hindering proper water flow. He engaged in discussions with the Chief Engineer of BMRCL and the Chief Engineer of BBMP’s Storm Water Drainage Department, both of whom were present at the site, to seek clarification on the matter.
The Lokayukta announced that a hearing regarding this issue is scheduled for May 23, 2025, at 12:00 noon in his office. He requested that both engineers submit a detailed report and outline the remedial measures that have been implemented.
Following that, a visit was conducted to Sai Barrage near Hennur. During this visit, residents expressed their concerns to the Lokayukta, reporting that water had inundated their homes, severely disrupting their daily lives. They also noted that their electricity supply had been disconnected for the past three days and requested a permanent solution to these pressing issues.
In response, the Lokayukta engaged with the Zonal Commissioner present at the site to gather more information about the situation. The Zonal Commissioner provided some explanations regarding the challenges faced. Subsequently, the Lokayukta scheduled a hearing for May 23, 2025, at 12:30 PM, instructing the relevant officials to attend and present their responses.
He also welcomed the participation of interested members of the public and media representatives, encouraging them to attend the hearing and voice their complaints.
Furthermore, the Lokayukta directed his office to initiate a suo motu case aimed at addressing the issues in the affected areas and ensuring the convenience of the public.
