“It is impossible to change Bengaluru overnight,” Said D.K. Shivakumar, stirring Controversy
Bengaluru — At a recent event, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar unveiled his bold vision for Bengaluru’s urban transformation. Speaking at the Namme Raste design workshop and the launch of the Traffic Laboratory at the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) central office, Shivakumar made a powerful statement, claiming that even divine intervention could not solve the city’s urban issues overnight.
“It is impossible to change Bengaluru overnight. Even if God Himself descended, it wouldn’t be possible. However, if we draft proper plans and implement them effectively, transformation is achievable,” Shivakumar said, signaling his long-term approach to improving the city’s infrastructure.
His words emphasize the necessity of sustainable planning to overhaul Bengaluru’s rapidly growing urban landscape. With its increasing population and urbanization, Bengaluru has faced growing concerns about traffic congestion, unorganized road structures, and a lack of green spaces. Shivakumar’s vision aims to address these concerns methodically and strategically.
Namma Raste: A Comprehensive Urban Design Initiative
Shivakumar presented the Namme Raste 2025 initiative, a comprehensive urban planning handbook designed to guide Bengaluru’s future growth. The handbook outlines several key areas of urban development, including pedestrian infrastructure, tree planting along roads, streetlight placement, and overall traffic discipline.
At the workshop, Shivakumar remarked, “The Namme Raste handbook will shape the future of Bengaluru, much like how the Indian Constitution, drafted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, shaped our nation.” This statement was intended to underline the significance of the initiative in transforming the city’s urban landscape for generations to come.
The plan includes a standardized design for all bus stops, metro pillars, and traffic junctions across the city, creating a uniform and consistent look throughout Bengaluru. These measures are expected to not only enhance the city’s aesthetic but also improve the quality and safety of its infrastructure.
The Deputy CM also announced that Namme Raste 2025 will feature a series of workshops and exhibitions from February 20-22, focusing on improving Bengaluru’s transportation systems and public infrastructure.
Underground Cables: A Modernizing Step for Bengaluru’s Infrastructure
In addition to the design workshop, Shivakumar revealed another groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving the city’s visual appeal and safety: the removal of overhead cables. Shivakumar ordered all cable wires to be moved underground, a move he says is long overdue.
“We waited long enough for cable operators to make alternative arrangements. Now, we have issued a strict order to cut all overhead cables. Once they are removed, they will automatically find a solution,” Shivakumar stated. This move is expected to declutter the city’s streets and enhance its aesthetic while also improving safety by reducing potential hazards caused by tangled cables.
Opposition Criticism: Political Tensions Rise
Shivakumar’s ambitious plans for Bengaluru’s transformation have not been without controversy. His recent statements have drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, particularly from the BJP. BJP leader R. Ashoka questioned Shivakumar’s ability to handle Bengaluru’s civic issues and demanded that he step down to make way for more competent leadership.
“Leaders in public life must demonstrate a sense of responsibility, unlike Deputy CM Shivakumar, who only treats Bengaluru as a cash cow to fund his personal ambitions. If DCM Shivakumar can’t take the responsibility of fixing Bengaluru’s civic issues, he must step down and make way for someone capable,” Ashoka said on X (formerly Twitter).
These comments highlight ongoing tensions between the ruling Congress party and the opposition in Karnataka as the city’s worsening infrastructure issues become a key point of political contention ahead of upcoming local elections.
The Long Road Ahead for Bengaluru
Despite the political friction, the focus remains on Bengaluru’s urban development. With a growing population of more than 12 million people, the city is grappling with numerous challenges, including traffic congestion, inadequate public transport, and a lack of public spaces.
Shivakumar’s comprehensive plan for urban renewal aims to address these issues over the long term. While the initiatives presented at the workshop are promising, their success will ultimately depend on effective implementation and collaboration among government officials, urban planners, and citizens.
Moreover, the Namme Raste initiative will require continued funding and political support, particularly as the state government faces mounting pressure to deliver on its promises before the elections.
Key Takeaways from Shivakumar’s Vision for Bengaluru
- Namme Raste 2025 is a comprehensive urban planning initiative aimed at transforming Bengaluru’s infrastructure.
- The initiative will standardize the design of public infrastructure, including bus stops, metro pillars, and traffic junctions.
- D.K. Shivakumar’s government plans to remove all overhead cables and replace them with an underground network to declutter the city.
- Shivakumar has emphasized the need for a long-term vision to address Bengaluru’s urban challenges, acknowledging that such a transformation cannot happen overnight.
- Opposition criticism of Shivakumar’s leadership and ability to handle Bengaluru’s civic issues continues to grow, especially from BJP leaders.