Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, DK Shivkumar, on Thursday said that the state will clear all the encroachments under the Disaster Management Act to ensure the smooth flow of rainwater, and he has directed officials regarding the same. 

Shivakumar was talking to the media after inspecting stormwater drains at Manyata Tech Park when he said, "Officials have been instructed to clear all buildings that obstruct the smooth flow of rain water in the city. Action will be taken under the Disaster Management Act." 

The Deputy CM further said that he has visited the rain-affected area, and any issues at Manyata Tech Park will cause disruption elsewhere as well, as the location is a junction area. “Some people have brought a stay from the court to stop encroachments, and our officials are also not cooperating. Hence, we have asked officials to clear encroachments under the Disaster Management Act," he added. 

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Karnataka Deputy CM further added, "We are not keen to take away anyone's property and give them trouble. I am visiting the problem spots myself to verify. Everyone has agreed to allow the works to continue. But it is important to find a permanent solution. We don't want to demolish any random building, but it is important to ensure that rainwater flows smoothly without causing a flood. We can't allow Bengaluru's reputation to go down the drain. We will compensate the building owners if there are technical issues, but we want the issues to be sorted out. We have given complete authority to the Commissioner and the Secretary to take necessary action in this regard.”

When confronted with a question on confusion maps, DK Shivakumar said that rainwater must flow smoothly, irrespective of any confusion with the map. 

Expressing his opinion on the BJP’s demand to reduce cess on garbage, he said, "We will make them realise the decision taken during their period. We will check their proposal and discuss with them." 

Deputy Chief Minister also spoke about the recent transfer in the irrigation department that ignited a row. While replying to a question on his letter to the Chief Secretary regarding the transfer of engineers in the Irrigation Department, he said, "There are not many engineers in the Irrigation Department, but we need resources immediately. Hence, I have written to the Chief Secretary not to transfer any of the engineers to other departments. Many of them come to our department, get a promotion and seek transfers to other departments.
With ANI Inputs