Bengaluru
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced on Wednesday that the foundation stone for the new municipal offices under the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) will be laid on November 1. He also said boundary towers would be built to demarcate the limits of the five new municipalities.
Speaking to reporters after unveiling the GBA office nameplate, Shivakumar confirmed an allocation of ₹300 crore from BBMP to cover administrative expenses, staff salaries, and pensions. Approval has been given to appoint 500 engineers for road improvement works, and the government has submitted a proposal to increase the number of wards from 198 to 500.
The DCM invited citizens and architects to contribute design ideas for the municipal offices, with prizes of ₹5 lakh for the best three to five entries. Each municipality will be staffed with two IAS officers, one KAS officer, two chief engineers, and adequate support staff.
On inclusion of new areas into GBA, he clarified that local bodies adjoining Bengaluru would be merged only after elections to the newly formed municipalities. Maheshwar Rao has been appointed as Chief Commissioner and Administrative Officer of GBA until polls are held, while a 75-member committee has also been constituted.
When asked about the responsibilities of the new commissioners, he said: “The new commissioners will work closely among the people. GBA commissioners are inspecting issues related to footpaths, water supply, roads, and other civic works. They will need to work 17–18 hours a day. Hence, along with senior officers, young officers have also been appointed.”
Addressing concerns about the English name “Greater Bengaluru,” Shivakumar said alternatives in Kannada would be considered if suitable. He assured citizens that issues such as water supply, road maintenance, and traffic congestion will be prioritized, urging public cooperation for transparent governance and timely tax compliance.
