Centre, state have share in metro project; serving people important, not credit: Shivakumar

Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, August 5th 2025 at 17:46 GMT by ThePrint
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Bengaluru, Aug 5 (PTI) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Tuesday said that both state and central governments hold shares in the metro projects, as he asserted that serving the people was more important than "credit politics". Shivakumar, who is also the Minister in-charge for Bengaluru development, inspected the soon-to-be-launched Yellow line of [ ]

Sharing the Burden, Serving the People: Shivakumar on Metro Project Credit and Collaboration

Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has publicly emphasized a collaborative approach to metro rail projects, asserting that both the central government and state governments should share responsibility for their development and operation, prioritizing public service over claiming credit. His remarks come amidst ongoing discussions surrounding the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) and its expansion plans, particularly concerning financial contributions and project ownership. Shivakumar’s statement represents a shift in tone from previous administrations and signals a desire to foster a more cooperative relationship with the central government on infrastructure development.

The core of Shivakumar's argument revolves around the fundamental purpose of public projects like metro systems: to serve the people. He argues that focusing solely on who gets the credit for a project distracts from the crucial objective of providing efficient and accessible transportation solutions. He implicitly criticizes previous practices where political parties often sought to highlight their involvement in infrastructure development, potentially at the expense of optimal planning or financial management. The emphasis should be on ensuring the metro system functions effectively, expands to reach underserved areas, and remains affordable for all segments of society.

The context behind Shivakumar’s statement is rooted in the current financial situation surrounding BMRCL's ambitious expansion plans. BMRCL has been facing significant cost overruns and funding challenges related to its ongoing Phase 2 and proposed Phase 3 projects. The initial estimates for these phases have ballooned considerably, placing a strain on both state and central resources. This escalating cost is compounded by land acquisition issues, which often involve lengthy legal battles and increased compensation demands. The financial burden has led to debates about the appropriate allocation of funds and the degree of responsibility each entity should bear.

Shivakumar's assertion isn’t simply a philosophical point; it reflects a practical need for improved coordination. He believes that a shared understanding of responsibilities, both financially and operationally, is essential for ensuring the successful completion and long-term sustainability of metro projects. This includes open communication about project timelines, potential delays, and cost adjustments. A collaborative approach allows for better resource allocation, potentially leveraging expertise from both central and state agencies to overcome challenges more effectively.

The Deputy Chief Minister’s perspective also touches upon a broader political narrative surrounding infrastructure development in India. Historically, there has been a tendency towards centralized control and decision-making regarding major projects, often with the central government taking the lead role. While this approach can ensure standardization and access to national resources, it can also stifle innovation at the state level and create friction when local needs and priorities are not adequately considered. Shivakumar’s call for shared responsibility suggests a desire to move towards a more decentralized model where states have greater autonomy in planning and executing projects that directly impact their citizens.

Furthermore, his statement implicitly acknowledges the importance of public perception and accountability. By de-emphasizing credit claiming, he aims to foster trust between the government and the citizenry. This transparency can help build support for future infrastructure investments and reduce potential resistance from communities affected by project construction. It also encourages a focus on delivering tangible benefits – improved connectivity, reduced congestion, and enhanced quality of life – rather than simply showcasing political achievements.

Shivakumar’s message extends beyond just Bangalore; it's applicable to metro projects across India. The challenges faced by BMRCL are not unique, and many other cities are grappling with similar issues related to funding, land acquisition, and project management. His call for collaboration provides a framework for addressing these common hurdles in a more constructive and sustainable manner. It suggests that the future of urban transportation development in India lies in fostering partnerships between central and state governments, prioritizing public service over political posturing, and ensuring that metro systems truly serve the needs of the people they are intended to benefit. The emphasis on shared responsibility signals a potential shift towards a more pragmatic and citizen-centric approach to infrastructure development nationwide.

Ultimately, Shivakumar’s statement is a plea for a change in mindset – one where the focus shifts from political gain to public good, and where collaboration becomes the cornerstone of successful urban transportation projects.

Read the Full ThePrint Article at:
[ https://theprint.in/india/centre-state-have-share-in-metro-project-serving-people-important-not-credit-shivakumar/2714548/ ]

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Centre, state have share in metro project; serving people important, not credit: Shivakumar

Sharing the Burden, Serving the People: Shivakumar on Metro Project Credit and Collaboration