Bengaluru: Amid ongoing criticism over traffic congestion and infrastructure challenges, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Friday defended Bengaluru’s traffic management, claiming it is more efficient than in cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Delhi.
New initiatives for traffic policing
Parameshwara was speaking during the handover of 50 patrol two-wheelers to the city’s traffic police. He highlighted that the government has procured 500 police vehicles this year to strengthen patrolling and emergency response.
The home minister also inaugurated a Rs 26-crore command centre, modelled on London’s system, which aims to ensure emergency response within nine minutes. In addition, he launched the Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) Astram e-accident app, designed to allow citizens to report accidents online and facilitate faster insurance claims.
Corporate responsibility and law enforcement
Emphasising the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR), Parameshwara urged major industries in the city to contribute to public welfare initiatives.
He also lauded the city police for cracking down on drug trafficking, citing a recent seizure of narcotics worth Rs 24 crore. Awareness campaigns targeting schools and colleges are ongoing to educate students about the risks of drugs.
Civic issues and infrastructure
Addressing complaints about potholes caused by recent rains, Parameshwara said repair work is underway. He appealed to citizens and political parties not to politicise civic issues, stressing the government’s efforts to maintain the city’s roads and traffic infrastructure.