Karnataka Government Tackles Unauthorized Buildings
Efforts Led by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar
In Bengaluru, Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister, DK Shivakumar, announced ongoing efforts to demolish unauthorized and substandard buildings. Criticizing the previous BJP government for limiting officials’ powers, Shivakumar stated that the current government is empowering local authorities like BBMP, BDA, and BMRDA to stop unauthorized constructions and halt the registration of such properties.
Flood Relief and Criticism
Amidst heavy rainfall, the government has faced criticism for its flood relief efforts. Shivakumar highlighted that no rain-related deaths occurred in Bengaluru, although two children drowned in a lake. The government has provided accommodation and food for flood-affected individuals. Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy criticized the Congress government, comparing Bengaluru’s flooding to Venice.
Plans for Flood Prevention
Shivakumar outlined plans to construct stormwater drains with adjacent roads to prevent flooding and facilitate maintenance. The initial phase aims to build 300 km of such infrastructure. Additionally, Deputy Commissioners have been instructed to compensate farmers for crop damage due to rains.
Compensation for Rain Damage
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced compensation for victims of collapsed homes, with Rs1.2 lakh for completely collapsed houses and Rs50,000 for partially collapsed ones. He reported 25 deaths and significant property damage due to excessive rainfall, which was the third-highest in a century.
Doubts Revealed
Karnataka Deputy CM -: The Deputy Chief Minister (CM) of Karnataka is a high-ranking official in the state government, second only to the Chief Minister. DK Shivakumar is the current Deputy CM, helping to manage the state’s affairs.
Unauthorized Buildings -: Unauthorized buildings are structures built without the necessary permissions or approvals from the government. These can cause problems like blocking drainage systems, leading to flooding.
BJP Government -: BJP stands for Bharatiya Janata Party, a major political party in India. The previous government in Karnataka was led by this party before the current one took over.
Stormwater Drains -: Stormwater drains are channels built to carry rainwater away from roads and buildings to prevent flooding. They help manage excess water during heavy rains.
CM Siddaramaiah -: CM Siddaramaiah is the Chief Minister of Karnataka, the head of the state government. He is responsible for making important decisions and policies for the state.
Compensation for Rain-Damaged Homes -: Compensation means providing money or help to people whose homes were damaged by rain. This helps them repair or rebuild their homes after the damage.
