Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, 2024: Transforming Urban Governance for a Better Bengaluru

The Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, 2024 marks a major leap toward revolutionizing urban governance in India's bustling tech capital. Aiming to address the complex challenges of rapid urbanization, the bill envisions a more coordinated, decentralized, and citizen-centric governance model for Bengaluru's expanding metropolitan area.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Introduction of the Greater Bengaluru Authority

At the heart of the bill is the formation of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) — a central coordinating body designed to streamline planning, service delivery, and development across the metropolitan area.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supervising multiple civic agencies.

• Coordinating infrastructure projects that span across city boundaries.

• Driving climate action, economic development, and sustainable urban growth.

2. Creation of New City Corporations

Recognizing the need for localised governance, the bill provides for the division of Bengaluru into up to 10 City Corporations.

Each City Corporation will:

• Have its own elected body and Mayor.

• Handle municipal functions like water supply, sanitation, and waste management.

• Empower Ward Committees and Area Sabhas for deeper citizen participation.

3. Empowerment of Ward Committees and Area Sabhas

Ward Committees will now act as basic units of urban governance, enabling communities to have a direct say in local civic issues.Highlights:

• Ward Development Plans: Localized planning and budgeting.

• Citizen participation: Residents can voice their needs and grievances more effectively.

4. Financial Reforms and Accountability

The GBA will oversee the allocation and management of financial resources across City Corporations.Key measures:

• Introduction of a Greater Bengaluru Authority Fund.

• Creation of a Finance Advisory Committee to ensure equitable distribution of grants.

• Performance and outcome-based funding models to encourage efficiency.

5. Focus on Major Infrastructure Projects

The Authority will spearhead mega infrastructure projects such as:

• Arterial road development.

• Stormwater drain networks.

• Power and water distribution management.

6. Climate and Economic Focus

Two major institutions will be established:

• Climate Action Cell: To drive Bengaluru's climate resilience and sustainability efforts.

• Economic Development Agency: To attract investments and promote job creation.

7. Stronger Coordination Among Public Utilities

The bill mandates integration of major civic utilities such as:

• Bangalore Development Authority (BDA)

• Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB)

• Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC)

• Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL)

All agencies must align their operations with GBA’s directives to ensure better service delivery.

Final Thoughts

The Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, 2024 lays the foundation for a future-ready, citizen-centric Bengaluru. By decentralizing governance, enhancing transparency, and fostering robust civic participation, this framework is poised to transform Bengaluru into a more livable, sustainable, and well-managed global city.

Stay tuned as Bengaluru embarks on this exciting journey of urban transformation!