Bengalureans oppose skydeck project

BENGALURU: The Karnataka government’s ambitious ‘Brand Bengaluru’ project, which includes the proposed 250-metre-high skydeck, has come in for much public opposition.

Hemmigepura is one of the many areas that have been shortlisted for the skydeck project. The proposed project, which will be built at a total cost of more than Rs 500 crore, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) plans to collect public suggestions before getting into the project. At this stage, Bengaluru citizens started opposing initiating new projects of the government.

Citizens are questioning the need for spending over Rs 500 crore on a project when city roads are plagued by potholes and several other problems. They have urged the authorities to fix existing infrastructure issues before undertaking new ones.

The skydeck, envisioned by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, aims to provide a unique aerial view of Bengaluru, create jobs and boost economic growth. It will feature food courts, playgrounds and other amenities.

However, citizens express concerns, saying that they do not oppose development, but want the authorities to address existing problems first, like repairing pathetic roads and improving infrastructure in the city.

Palike Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath said, “The total budget of the proposed skydeck project is between Rs 400 crore and Rs 500. The project is a small part of the total projects totalling Rs 63,000 which have been proposed. It is a very small part, just 0.5 per cent. We have invited suggestions regarding the location. Fixing potholes comes under maintenance; it is a continuous process. That is different, and this project comes under a different finance head”.