Bengaluru: The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Council on Wednesday passed a resolution to extend rebate on property tax payment till May 31, and to repair borewells and arrange for drinking water for residents on priority.
Corporators spoke about the severe water shortage they were facing, with many borewells having dried up, and many areas completely dependent on tankers. Responding to their concerns, BBMP Commissioner Manjunath Prasad acknowledged the delay in addressing the issue.
He suggested to the Mayor that a separate fund be set aside for borewells, as was done for potholes the previous year, to fast track the process.
Many corporators raised the issue of illegal borewells being dug up on BBMP land and footpaths. “Such illegal borewells will be seized and a criminal case filed against those responsible,” said Prasad.
BWSSB officials came under flak for not responding to citizens’ grievances.
Padmanabha Reddy, Leader of the Opposition in the council, said the online process for property tax payment had resulted in several delays.
Several other corporators also raised the concern of citizens who said they faced problems in paying the tax online. Acknowledging this, the BBMP extended the rebate for one more month till May 31.
