‘First task is to check Bengaluru’s readiness for rain’

Achieving a major milestone in her political career, Congress’ Jayanagar corporator Gangambike Mallikarjun — the city’s 52nd mayor — has her job cut out to usher the city into its next phase of development. On taking the top job at the city council, she has assured citizens to expedite all the developmental projects undertaken by the BBMP. She revealed her plans for the city in an interview with DH. Excerpts:

Your first task as mayor. 

Gangambike: To check the city’s preparedness to handle the heavy rain. I will discuss the precautionary measures in place with the officials and inspect the measures taken.

The high court has made frequent interventions in the pothole menace and removal of hoardings. Your thoughts on these issues. 

Gangambike: Officials are filling the potholes in compliance with the high court directions. In my term, we will continue the work without a need for court intervention.

About garbage segregation and management, which has hit a crisis point?

Gangambike: We will take suggestions from all the 198 corporate on the garbage issue. I request the cooperation of the citizens to make this a garden city, green city and a garbage-free city.

Regarding removing encroachments on stormwater drains. 

Gangambike: We will soon begin the survey to identify the encroachments of stormwater drains, which have stalled.

Your response to the Opposition’s allegation that the BBMP is controlled by the state government. 

Gangambike: I don’t agree. From the tenure of former chief minister Siddaramaiah, the BBMP has been given freedom and funds needed to carry out the projects. Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara has promised all help from the state government.

The BBMP seems to be in a financial crunch. The commissioner recently wrote to the government on bringing in some discipline. How will you fix this?

Gangambike: We depend on the revenue (generated by the civic body) to implement the projects. Will find out loopholes in the sources and plug them to ensure more revenue.