Experts want govt data in public domain to solve urban woes

Is it not possible to publish government data in the public domain? How can Bengaluru, being the home of research and technology, solve its urban issues? What kind of urbanisation strategies are needed to accelerate smart city solutions?

These were among the many questions that were discussed at the Bangalore Regional Dialogue on ‘Urbanisation, Innovation and Climate Resilience’. The event was hosted by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) here, ahead of the World Sustainable Development Summit that is scheduled to be held in New Delhi. During the discussion, urbanist V Ravichandar dwelled upon the need for open government data in the light of the recent floods and the ongoing demolition drive.

“People want the exact location of feeder canals (rajakaluve) networks and buffer zones of lakes in the public domain, particularly on a GIS platform. But the administration is not giving it. It requires a change in the mindset for being more open with data,” he said and added that there is a vested interest.

“The BBMP cannot depend on the old village survey map to identify encroachments. The current Comprehensive Development Plan does not have the data. The administration, however, must incorporate it in the master plan for 2031, which might be ready in another 10 months,” Ravichandar later told Deccan Herald.

Ravichandar said about 30% of the BBMP limits would be affected if the government implements the National Green Tribunal order on buffer zones. He pushed for public transport and pedestrian friendly projects, instead of flyovers.

At the inaugural session, Dr A Ravindra, former chief secretary, appreciated the government’s move to clear encroachments in the city. He said, “There is lack of competency in the administrative level and those who are efficient get into the private sector. Hence, there is a need for active citizen participation in governance,” he added. Jaya Dhindaw of EMBARQ India, WRI, said there was lack of coordination among government agencies and the planning framework was messy and hidden.

Hariprasad Hegde, senior vice-president, Wipro, said job creation would not be on a par with the pace of urbanisation and many people might become unemployed. Prof S L Rao, fellow emeritus, TERI, said Bengaluru was the home of research and technology, which should be channelised to solve its urban issues.