Bengaluru In a compelling display of civic frustration, a No Development No Tax campaign has ignited in Bengaluru highlighting the growing impatience with the government’s lackluster approach to road maintenance and development. This grassroots movement has gained momentum as one resident took out a loan from a bank to address potholes, emphasizing the lengths to which citizens are willing to go to combat road-related woes. The government’s obligation to provide quality civic facilities to all residents remains a cornerstone of governance. However, disillusioned with the persistent government inaction, the Citizens Group, East Bengaluru took matters into their own hands. The group launched their No Development No Tax campaign to boycott property tax payments, showcasing their dissatisfaction with the prevailing state of road infrastructure. Just recently, members of the group united to pool funds and mend potholes on a 6 km stretch at Halanayakanahalli and Chudasandra in Muneswara Layout. Arif Mudgal, a 32-year-old founder of the group, went above and beyond by securing a Rs 2.7 lakh loan from a bank to tackle the pothole menace. Reflecting on his decision, Mudgal stated that witnessing accidents on the roads spurred him into action. In a poignant instance, a woman was injured when her car plunged into a pothole on New Road. Another incident involved a delivery agent who broke his leg after a collision caused by avoiding a similar pothole. Disturbed by these events, Mudgal’s resolve to close the potholes solidified. The Citizens Group, East Bangalore, established five years ago by Mudgal and likeminded individuals, has been advocating for better amenities, including roads and drains. While group members have collectively contributed to address some potholes, Mudgal’s initiative to secure a loan for pothole repairs reflects the magnitude of the problem.
