Bengaluru
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, during the inauguration of the Shree Bireshwar Swamy Temple's community and prayer halls at Nelamangala, disclosed the state government's contemplation regarding the extension of metro services to Nelamangala. Recognizing the demand for expanded metro connectivity, the government has pledged to review the proposal, addressing the region's transportation needs. Additionally, the CM announced forthcoming initiatives aimed at enhancing Nelamangala's infrastructure. The Ettinahole project, scheduled for implementation within the next three years, aims to resolve the persistent drinking water issues not only in Nelamangala but also in other areas of Bangalore rural district. Plans for improved drainage systems and the completion of the Vrushabhavati project to replenish lakes surrounding Nelamangala were also underscored. The proposed extension of metro connectivity was a key agenda, alongside other developmental projects. The Chief Minister assured the populace of bolstered basic amenities, focusing on the drainage system and overall infrastructure in Nelamangala. Moreover, the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palika (BBMP) is gearing up to increase revenue sources within the city. Recent government orders mandate the collection of service charges from properties associated with metro stations. A meeting held in 2022 under government directives discussed property tax revision and rule implementation, culminating in an August 19, 2023 order specifying the payment of service fees. Munish Maudgil, Special Commissioner of BBMP Revenue Division, affirmed the agreement to commence tax collection from December 9, 2020. Notably, the pending issue of taxation for Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) properties, under proposal since 2019, has progressed to its final stages. The BBMP has set an ambitious property tax collection target of Rs 4,500 crore for the financial year, with current collections nearing Rs 3,000 crore. Accelerated recovery processes have been initiated to bridge this gap. In an agreement with Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation, the corporation is poised to receive an annual income of Rs 2.14 crore through service charges, leveraging the existing 73.81 km metro network encompassing the East-West and North-South corridors.