Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar highlighted that Bengaluru's transformation is not possible overnight and that even the intervention of the gods would not result in instantaneous change. He underlined that a properly conceived, long-term urban development strategy is necessary to enhance the city.
"Changing Bengaluru overnight is not possible. Even if God Himself descended, it would not be possible. But with the right plans and proper implementation, change is possible," Shivakumar said while opening the 'Namma Raste – Design Workshop' and inaugurating the Traffic Laboratory at the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) central office.
He emphasized the need to keep all urban infrastructure, such as roads, pedestrian pathways, and parks, uniform in quality and discipline. To make it uniform, the Karnataka government plans to have standardized designs for bus shelters, metro pillars, and traffic intersections throughout the city.
Shivakumar's comments, however, invited Opposition criticism. BJP leader R Ashoka attacked the Deputy CM, asking him to resign if he was unable to tackle Bengaluru's civic problems.
"Public leaders have to be responsible, as opposed to DK Shivakumar, who regards Bengaluru just as a source of funds to achieve his dreams. If he is unable to manage the problems of the city, he must resign and allow someone else more capable to govern it," Ashoka posted on X.
Shivakumar unveiled a new handbook during the event that gives precise directions on urban infrastructure, such as tree plantation on roads, streetlight placement, pedestrian amenities, and traffic control.
The 'Namma Raste 2025' program will organize workshops and exhibitions on different transport systems from February 20 to February 22.
The Deputy CM also announced a significant step to remove overhead cable wires and replace them with an underground system.
We've waited long enough for cable operators to come to alternative arrangements. Now, we've given them a stern instruction to cut off all overhead wires. Once that is done, they will have to come to a proper arrangement," he declared.
Comparing it to the Indian Constitution, Shivakumar equated the 'Namma Raste' handbook to be a guiding charter for Bengaluru's urban space.
"Our country was molded by the Constitution, written by Dr. BR Ambedkar. And likewise, the 'Namma Raste' guidebook will define the direction for Bengaluru's future," he summed up.
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