Good morning, Bengaluru!
🌧️ Today’s weather: Cloudy sky and some rain.
🧐 Did you know? The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) was inaugurated on 27 December 1974. But its roots date back to 1847 when the Bangalore Lunatic Asylum was founded.
🛡️ School security
Bengaluru’s private schools are implementing new security measures as mandated by local police.
What’s it about? The Karnataka Public Safety (Measures) Enforcement Act of 2017 has prompted Bengaluru police to issue notices to private schools for the installation of metal detectors and high-resolution CCTV systems. These directives, which have begun in the Bengaluru South education district, are expected to extend city-wide. Schools must now ensure continuous surveillance and employ specialized staff to manage the security systems.
- Schools are required to install door frame and handheld metal detectors, and CCTV cameras capable of clear imaging up to 50 yards, with a storage capacity for at least 30 days.
- The security upgrades, including 24/7 camera operation at key points, must be funded and maintained by the schools, raising concerns about the financial and operational burden.
Resistance from schools: The move has met with resistance from school associations, referencing a 2014 rule challenged in court. They argue that imposing further measures is unfair, given the existence of a protection policy since 2017.
🚰 Bengaluru to utilise full Cauvery quota
The Karnataka Government orders the use of 24 TMC Cauvery water annually for Bengaluru’s drinking needs.
What’s it about? Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced that the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is directed to utilise the full 24 TMC of Cauvery water allotted by the Supreme Court in 2018 for the city’s drinking water. This decision comes as a response to Bengaluru’s rapid growth and the need to plan for the next two decades. Currently, BWSSB uses 18 TMC, falling short of the stipulated amount.
- The move aims to address the increasing water demands of Bengaluru’s expanding areas, including Anekal, Harohalli, and the rapidly growing Bengaluru North.
- The decision reaffirms Karnataka’s right to the allocated water despite potential objections from Tamil Nadu, emphasizing drinking water as a priority.
Will face issues: Shivakumar stressed the state’s commitment to following the Supreme Court’s directive, indicating readiness to face any objections from neighbouring states. The plan includes reserving the water in the KRS dam or elsewhere within the Cauvery basin to secure Bengaluru’s water supply for the future.
🛬 KIA Terminal 1 revamped
KIA’s Terminal 1 has been repurposed for domestic flights.
What’s it about? The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has undergone a significant transformation with the repurposing of its Terminal 1 to exclusively serve domestic operations. This move comes after the shift of international operations to Terminal 2 in September, as detailed by the Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL).
- The renovation has introduced nine new contact stands to the eight existing ones, expanding the domestic flight facilities.
- Enhancements include three additional baggage claim belts and upgraded retail and dining experiences, with access to lounges and spa amenities.
Other work: The refurbishment has also focused on improving the passenger experience with the installation of an Automated Tray Retrieval System in the Pre-Embarkation Security Check area, streamlining the security process. Additional measures have been implemented to assist passengers with special needs, ensuring a more accessible and efficient journey through the airport.
💧 Crackdown on illegal borewells
Groundwater Directorate targets illegal borewells across Bengaluru.
What’s it about? Following a complaint from the Whitefield ward committee, the Groundwater Directorate has issued orders to district officials to crack down on the rampant drilling of illegal borewells in the area. This is the first such directive for immediate action under the Karnataka Groundwater Act.
- The directive is challenged by a staff shortage, limiting enforcement capabilities to a reactive approach based on complaints.
- Social media discussions led by the Minister for Minor Irrigation urged public reporting to aid in the crackdown on unauthorized groundwater usage.
What do activists say? Despite the promise of action against new illegal borewell operations, activists believe a broader, systematic inspection strategy is necessary. The challenge is compounded by plummeting groundwater levels across Bengaluru’s taluks, highlighting the critical need for sustainable water management and enforcement against misuse.
📊 Today’s Poll
(Only subscribers can participate in the polls)
Do you believe in a 70-hour workweek?
- I believe in a 70-hour workweek.
- I don’t believe in a 70-hour workweek.
❓ Today’s Question
(Only subscribers can submit their answers)
What’s your favourite video game?
Reply to this email with your answers.
🗞️ In other news…
- Rapido brings cab services to Bengaluru and applies for a licence.
- Nikhil Kamath plans to donate a majority of his wealth to philanthropic causes, inspired by Nandan Nilekani, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and Aziz Premji.
- Read about what draws leopards to the city.
- A lake was breached due to rain causing mayhem.
- TAPMI announces a new MBA in Technology Management course.
🛋️ Local Lounge
Yesterday’s Poll:
- I have purchased from a ration shop: 40.0%
- I haven’t purchased from a ration shop: 60.0% 🏆
That’s it for today. Have a great day!