Distributing pamphlets and creating awareness among motorists, the protesters tried to generate interest among people on the proposal for an alternative road traffic solution for the congestion on the stretch along the Bund road. Placards and banners appealed to the
Government to protect the heritage of the City.
Residents appealed to the State to complete all existing infrastructure projects, including the Namma Metro project, before embarking on any further road widening initiatives. “There is a need for a scientific study on the way Bangalore is being subjected to road-widening projects,” said Vani Murthy, member of the Malleswaram Swabhimana Initiative (MSI), which is spearheading the opposition as part of the residents association.
“Why can’t the Government think of popularising public transport, before making it convenient for the burgeoning private vehicle density in the City by widening roads?” asked members of the India Against Corruption, an NGO.
Complaint to Lokayukta
A complaint has been registered at the Lokayukta with regard to the ‘hushed’ manner in which the BBMP disposed of the tree logs.
Speaking on the sidelines of an event in the City, Lokayukta Justice Santosh Hegde said he had received a complaint from citizens over the auctioning of the trees that were felled earlier last month. “The complaint states that the auctioning of trees did not follow the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement Act and that the trees were sold at an undervalued rate as compared to the market prices,” said Hegde.
On the action that could possibly be taken in this regard, Hegde said a detailed investigation has to be taken up on the sale of these trees. “But I do not think that it can be taken up in my tenure as I am retiring on August 3,” he said.