Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagar Palike (BBMP) Special Commissioner, Shivanand H Kalakeri, along with BBMP Chief Commissioner Rakesh Singh, and Additional Chief Secretary of the Urban Development Department, a budget amounting to Rs 12,369.46 crore. The budget, boasting a surplus of Rs 2.17 crore.
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Similar to the state budget, the BBMP budget earmarks funds for the construction of tunnel roads. Two such roads are proposed, with a dedicated budget of Rs 200 crore. This initiative aligns with the city’s vision for improved connectivity and transportation infrastructure.
Addressing citizens’ concerns over revised property tax, BBMP announced that the new property tax collection, based on guidance value, will come into effect from April 1, 2024. Notably, the guidance value will be streamlined into six categories, replacing the previous 17, aiming for a more straightforward and efficient tax structure.
Source: The New Indian Express
In an effort to make Bengaluru a cleaner and visually appealing city, BBMP plans to acquire 50-100 acres of land in all four directions, allocating Rs 100 crore for the initiative. Additionally, the budget allocates Rs 100 crore for the installation of colorful lights on flyovers, underbridges, junctions, and parks to enhance the city’s aesthetics.
To promote community engagement, BBMP officials outlined plans for parks and layouts, encouraging citizen participation in lake development. The budget also allocates resources for the establishment of three scientific animal birth control centers, two modern slaughterhouses, and four rendering plants to manage animal waste.
Source: The Indian Express
The BBMP budget reflects a commitment to the well-being of citizens, as seen in the announcement of 50 Indira Canteens across the city. These canteens will offer subsidized breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Furthermore, Rs 173 crore is allocated for the establishment of 41 new schools and the renovation of existing ones, emphasizing the importance of education in the city.
The BBMP aims to address the needs of marginalized communities, such as the transgender population, by setting up night shelters and renovating existing ones. Additionally, a unique healthcare initiative named “Manobimba” is launched to respond to growing brain health concerns. This initiative will take the form of a YouTube channel with six interactive platforms. The budget also allocates Rs one crore for the establishment of a daycare center catering to specially-abled children.
Source: Newsdrum
Finally, BBMP made a significant announcement by proposing the establishment of a national disaster mitigation fund before the central government. This forward-looking initiative underscores the city’s commitment to proactively manage and mitigate the impact of potential disasters.
