BJP plans protest over hiring of sweeping machines

BENGALURU: The Greater Bengaluru Authority’s (GBA) plan to hire 44 sweeping machines at a cost of over Rs 600 crore has led to much debate with opposition from many corners. Now, the state BJP is also opposing and planning to protest against the plan, terming it as financial mismanagement.

The state cabinet’s decision is being discussed at the national level and criticisms are also being voiced. The decision to rent sweeping machines that could be bought outright is being labelled as illegal, corrupt and financial mismanagement. The BJP and JDS are now using this as ammunition against the Congress government.

Opposition leader R Ashoka questioned the state government about its justification to spend Rs 613 crore to rent 44 sweeping machines. “Under the central government’s Swachh Bharat initiative, they are buying the machines for Rs 82  lakh and giving them to the state government. Is it right for them to rent the vehicles? They could purchase 45 vehicles for Rs 308 crore, but Rs 300 crore is being looted”, he said.

Parliament member PC Mohan also said there is a huge financial scandal in the Greater Bengaluru Authority. “There are irregularities in garbage cleaning and in asphalting. They are not fixing potholes or making roads, yet funds are being released on top of funds. Where is the money going?” he asked.