Interacting with Deccan Herald after assuming charge on Wednesday, he said he would take steps to accelerate the project after learning its progress in consultation with the City Municipal Council President and officials.
“Supplying 24x7 drinking water is the first priority. The scheme will be experimentally launched in October. Further step will be taken after studying the requirement of water for the city, but in consultation with the CMC President and other members. There will be no unilateral decisions,” he said.
Road development
Rao said development of roads will be his second priority. “The city roads have gone miserable. Emphasis will be given to provide pothole-free roads. There will be no compromise in quality. The works will be taken up after conducting a meeting with the officials,” he said.
“The roller with the CMC is not in a good condition. It needs to be repaired to take up the road works,” he added.
Stressing on the necessity of improving infrastructure in view of tourism development, Rao said, “Madikeri is a tourist centre and the number of tourists coming here is increasing day by day. The rush is so high during weekends. But there is lack of basic amenities here, which will be given importance in the days to come.”
Recovery of bills
“Huge drinking water bill is yet to be recovered by the Council for the past few years. A sum of Rs 26 lakh is to be paid to the CMC from the commercial and domestic users. The government feels that if a local body fails to pay the full amount, it indicates its failure,” the Commissioner said.
The citizens who expect better administration from the CMC should cooperate in paying tax too. Steps to recover pending bills will be discussed with the Council President and officials, he appealed.
Clean-green city
He said priority will also be given on keeping the city clean and green. The ‘Nirmala Nagara’ scheme meant for door-to-door garbage collection has not been successful here. Attention will be given for its proper implementation, he said.
Rao also stressed on proper maintenance of street lights and controlling street dog menace. “A helpline has already been set up for receiving complaints on street lights. Efforts will be made to set the street lights proper within 24 hours of complaint,” he informed.