Bengaluru’s ORR infra issues set to end soon, promises GBA commissioner

Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao said that the Outer Ring Road (ORR) is a developing area that continues to face problems related to roads and storm water drains, but these problems are now in the final stages of resolution.

“My predecessor Tushar Giri Nath sir has already taken necessary measures to solve the problems in that area. All these works are about to be completed,” Mr. Rao said, adding that citizens should cooperate until the works are completed.

Mr. Rao made these remarks in the context of a letter sent to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah by the Individual Taxpayers Forum (ITPF), a citizens’ group representing income taxpayers from Varthur, Panathur and Balagere. The letter accused civic agencies of carrying out “unscientific, incomplete and poorly coordinated” whitewash and drainage works; This led to serious flooding and disruption of traffic and daily life.

Mr. Rao said he has not received any information regarding such complaints so far, but added that citizens can raise their concerns and they will be looked into in detail.

“During heavy rains, potholes are inevitable, but we take immediate action to fix them. During monsoon, problems can arise even if quality work is done,” Mr. Rao said.

In a meeting with all chief engineers, Mr. Rao instructed them to prioritize pothole repairs along the ORR. He instructed to take similar measures on main artery, sub-arterial and neighborhood level roads to ensure safe and trouble-free transportation.

He also directed that the ongoing white coating works should be kept in good condition to facilitate smooth vehicle movement and the contractors responsible for these projects should ensure their regular maintenance.

“Drainage pipes laid along flyovers to divert rainwater broke down at many places, causing water to fall directly on the roads and cause damage,” Mr. Rao told the engineers. He instructed that damaged pipes should be checked and replaced immediately.