Bengaluru's civic infrastructure is facing a critical juncture, demanding coordinated action from both officials and citizens to restore the city's livability. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Biocon Executive Chairperson, has been vocal about the city's crumbling infrastructure, urging civic authorities and political leaders to take decisive action.

Shaw highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the various civic issues plaguing Bengaluru, including garbage accumulation and the pervasive pothole problem. She emphasized that a 90-day plan has been initiated to clean the city, focusing on removing debris and garbage. The plan also aims to identify and penalize those who illegally dump waste.

According to Mazumdar-Shaw, citizen vigilance is crucial. She urged residents to report instances of littering or illegal dumping, emphasizing that everyone must contribute to maintaining the cleanliness of their surroundings. She believes that citizens should take responsibility for their streets, rather than solely relying on officials.

The Biocon Chairperson has also directly criticized the quality of civic work. After the Bengaluru West City Corporation shared a video showcasing the removal of a black spot in Malleswaram, Mazumdar-Shaw responded by questioning the quality of the work, pointing out the shoddy finishing of the reclaimed footpath.

Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar responded to Mazumdar-Shaw's concerns by acknowledging the challenges and promising action. He stated that the government is committed to addressing issues ranging from garbage and roads to debris and planning with urgency. Shivakumar believes that the recently formed Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), a 75-member body, presents a chance to turn this vision into reality.

Mazumdar-Shaw discussed a recent meeting that included all stakeholders, under the leadership of the chief secretary. A key focus was ensuring proper and systematic garbage collection, along with designated dumping sites for debris. The commissioners are now taking accountability for the situation.

Addressing the traffic congestion, Mazumdar-Shaw suggested exploring measures like carpooling and ensuring that people abide by traffic laws. While acknowledging that measures like pothole filling and asphalting are temporary fixes, she stressed the importance of finding permanent solutions.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has also expressed his dissatisfaction with the state of Bengaluru's roads and traffic management, setting a one-month deadline for officials to rectify the issues.

Overall, fixing Bengaluru's civic problems requires a multi-pronged approach. It involves not only government initiatives and efficient execution by civic bodies but also active participation and a sense of responsibility from the citizens. By working together, Bengaluru can address its infrastructure challenges and reclaim its position as a leading global city.