SIDDARAMAIAH INSPECTS FLOOD-HIT AREAS IN BENGALURU; ORDERS IMMEDIATE CLEARANCE OF ENCROACHMENTS

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar during an inspection of rain-affected areas in Bengaluru In the wake of severe flooding that disrupted life across parts of Bengaluru in the last few days, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah inspected the affected zones on Wednesday. He visited multiple spots impacted by encroachments on storm-water drains and directed officials to take swift and uncompromising action.

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Starting at Yelahanka zone, the Chief Minister reviewed areas where major private builders, including those of Manayata Tech Park, Manpho, and Karle, have allegedly encroached upon the rajakaluves (storm-water drains). On being briefed by officials, Mr. Siddaramaiah questioned them sharply: "Have you just been watching this happen? Why haven't notices been issued yet?" He then instructed officials to remove encroachments without hesitation, regardless of the influence or stature of the builders.

At HBR Layout, he inspected the storm-water drain overflowing due to a bottleneck created by a railway track crossing. He ordered that the track area be widened to restore smooth water flow and also proposed changes to town planning policies to prohibit basement parking and construction of houses at lower elevations in flood-prone zones.