Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stirred controversy by stating that even divine intervention cannot swiftly resolve Bengaluru’s escalating traffic and infrastructure issues. His comments were met with backlash on social media, criticizing the Congress government for delaying projects and worsening traffic conditions. Shivakumar emphasized the need for effective planning and execution for improvement. Economist Mohandas Pai challenged his remarks, highlighting that infrastructure projects remain incomplete and public transport inadequate. The BJP also criticized Shivakumar, questioning the government’s competence. In response, Shivakumar mentioned that his government released a handbook to tackle the city’s pending infrastructure challenges.
New Delhi:
Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stirred controversy on Wednesday with his assertion that even divine intervention can’t resolve Bengaluru’s escalating traffic and infrastructure issues overnight. His unexpected statement faced backlash on social media, where many criticized the ruling Congress government for the delays in projects and ongoing traffic woes.
“Bengaluru cannot be transformed in two or three years. Even God can’t accomplish that. Change is only possible with proper planning and effective execution,” Mr Shivakumar remarked.
His comments came after the inauguration of a road construction workshop, amid increasing concerns from Bengaluru residents and urban planners about the worsening traffic situation, the sluggish expansion of the metro, and insufficient public transport options. Critics argue that despite announcements of ambitious infrastructure projects, execution has been disappointingly slow and inconsistent.
Economist and Aarin Capital chairman Mohandas Pai challenged Mr Shivakumar’s claims, questioning the government’s strides in enhancing Bengaluru’s infrastructure.
“Minister DK Shivakumar, it’s been two years since you took office! We welcomed you as a formidable Minister. Yet, our circumstances have deteriorated!” Mr Pai expressed on social media.
Minister @DKShivakumar it has been 2 years since you became our Minister! We applauded and welcomed you as a strong Minister. But our lives have become much worse! Big projects announced! Will take very long and delayed as govt has not completed any project in city on time!
Why… https://t.co/32Kqkzrviv
— Mohandas Pai (@TVMohandasPai) February 20, 2025
Mr Pai asserted that key infrastructure projects are unfinished, footpaths are in poor shape, and public transport is lacking. He urged for immediate actions, including the acquisition of 5,000 new electric buses, creating a cleaner and more pedestrian-friendly city, and continuous work on metro expansion.
The opposition BJP also criticized Mr Shivakumar’s statement, accusing the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government of severe incompetence.
“It is regrettable that the person who promised to promote ‘Brand Bengaluru’ has remarked that even God cannot resolve these issues. If that’s the case, then who can?” BJP leader Mohan Krishna told NDTV. “God has granted an opportunity to serve the people, but it’s unfortunate that this government has focused on many activities besides development.”
Mr Shivakumar later mentioned that his government has published a handbook on roads aimed at addressing all pending issues in Karnataka’s capital, including the design of new roads and bus stands to alleviate critical traffic problems.