Bengaluru's urban managers are pushing hard to fix two of the city's most persistent headaches: water infrastructure failures and traffic congestion. In a significant move on Thursday, the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) executive committee meeting resulted in concrete directives aimed at tackling both issues head-on.

Key facts

  • BWSSB ordered to identify and fix rainwater harvesting system failures causing sewer network issues
  • 55 locations identified for new fire hydrant network installation
  • 103 bus-stands to be relocated to eliminate traffic chokepoints
  • Walkway completion ordered at congested Iblur Junction on Outer Ring Road

Water Wokes and Infrastructure Fixes

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board received specific instructions to limit leakages and better coordinate with city corporations while implementing its annual action plan. GBA chief M. Maheswar Rao noted that faulty rainwater harvesting systems were actually making things worse in some cases, with water entering the sewerage network instead of being properly captured.

"The BWSSB had been directed to take up a special drive to identify the irregularities," Rao stated after the meeting. The water board will also work with corporations to fill the city's lakes through both Cauvery Stage V and sewage treatment plants.

Traffic and Safety Measures

Transportation improvements formed another major focus area. Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, who chaired the meeting, ordered officials to complete the walkway at Iblur Junction—one of Bengaluru's most notorious traffic bottlenecks. He also pushed BMTC and other departments to develop an action plan for better first- and last-mile connectivity to encourage public transport use.

In perhaps the most noticeable change for daily commuters, 103 bus-stands will be relocated across the city to eliminate traffic chokepoints. The move could significantly ease congestion if implemented effectively.

Safety and Surveillance Dual Use

The Fire and Emergency Services department submitted a list of 55 locations where a fire hydrant network could be installed. Minister Gowda also directed the department to review the need for foam-based fire tenders, indicating a comprehensive approach to fire safety.

Rao revealed that existing CCTV cameras installed under the Safe City project could serve dual purposes—helping civic authorities identify problems like potholes or garbage littering while maintaining their security function. The corporations were also told to expedite the Suraksha 75 project aimed at reducing accidents throughout Bengaluru.