Bengaluru: The BBMP Contractors Association has announced its decision to suspend all works across Bengaluru starting from July 8. This move comes as a result of the association’s claims that BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Girinath has not fulfilled their demands despite multiple requests.
GM Nandakumar, president of the association, stated that requests have been submitted five to six times over two months, urging the fulfillment of nine demands put forth by the contractors. The demands remained unmet even after discussions held in the presence of the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister.
Nandakumar added that following this lack of response from the Chief Commissioner, it was unanimously decided in a meeting by office bearers of the association on Tuesday to halt all kinds of work from Monday. This includes ward work, rainwater drainage projects, road construction, white topping projects, lake development initiatives, and planning activities carried out by the horticulture department.
The demands made by the association include releasing 25% of withheld balances during payment for works bills to contractors and a request for approximately ₹1,600 crore owed for works undertaken over 24 months. Additionally, they sought expedited billing processes and payment procedures, along with other financial considerations related to tendering practices.
This announcement underscores growing tensions between BBMP contractors and authorities due to unresolved issues regarding payments and working conditions.