Seeking to enhance accessibility for residents, North Corporation Commissioner Pommala Sunil Kumar is launching a dedicated two-hour phone-in program, ‘Connect with Citizens,’ every Friday, beginning September 26. This initiative empowers residents to directly engage with the Commissioner from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., voicing their concerns and submitting requests related to vital civic services.
Key sub-departments, covering essential services like electricity, waste management, and road maintenance, will be actively participating in this weekly program. A technical assistant will also be on hand to ensure that all complaints are efficiently routed to the appropriate officials for swift action.
Commissioner Kumar elaborated on the program’s benefits, stating that this direct approach promises significantly faster resolution times compared to existing channels. He explained that current complaint processes, whether via control rooms or online portals, often involve delays as issues are routed through various departments. With the new phone-in system, complaints will be immediately recorded and directly forwarded, drastically reducing wait times and ensuring diligent follow-up. Issues of a minor nature are expected to be resolved within 48 hours, while more extensive tasks like road repairs could take up to a week.
Mr. Kumar further emphasized the program’s inclusive nature, noting that traditional jurisdictional meetings often necessitate physical attendance, which can exclude many residents. ‘A phone-in empowers anyone to participate from the comfort of their home, saving valuable time and ensuring all voices are heard,’ he stated. He envisions this initiative as a crucial ‘first step’ in understanding the unique challenges faced by different wards and fostering public trust in the newly formed corporation. It’s also designed to pinpoint specific struggling areas and provide citizens with direct access to administrative solutions.
Gangmen identified to tackle waterlogging
In a related development, the North Commissioner also addressed the persistent problem of flooding in low-lying regions, especially near Hebbal and along the Kempegowda International Airport stretch. To combat this, executive engineers have strategically deployed ‘gangmen’ – laborers residing close to these flood-prone areas. These dedicated teams are equipped to respond within five minutes of an incident, providing immediate relief and preventing traffic disruptions and other inconveniences often caused by waterlogging.