The ongoing protest by BBMP contractors over unpaid bills has now entered its second day, significantly affecting various development projects. The strike, which involves demands for overdue payments, is impacting efforts to repair over 2,500 potholes. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has issued a deadline to BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Girinath to address the issue.
The protest is also disrupting white-topping work on major roads and rainwater drainage projects, which are valued at ₹1,800 crore. KT Manjunath, President of the BBMP Working Contractors Association, stated that over 700 contractors are expected to participate in a protest at Freedom Park. The contractors plan to conduct a one-day sit-in and a hunger strike, citing BBMP’s failure to release funds despite orders from the Deputy Chief Minister.
The strike is also affecting preparations for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, particularly impacting the dissolution of Ganesha idols and the deployment of mobile tankers and personnel. Contractor Nandakumar noted that payment delays by various governments have led to severe financial difficulties for contractors, including suicides due to bank loan pressures and notices.
