Good morning, Bengaluru!
☀️ Today’s weather: Sunny and hot.
🧐 Did you know? Naturals (ice cream brand) is a crowd favourite, and it was founded by Mangalore-based Raghunandan Srinivas Kamath in 1984. The first store opened in Juhu, Mumbai. Kamath’s father was a mango vendor in Karnataka from whom he learnt the skill of mango picking.
🚕 California’s inDrive will be here soon
Bengalureans will soon have another alternative to Ola and Uber.
Story so far: The ETA for California-based online ride-hailing company inDrive in Bengaluru is soon. It’s already operating in Delhi-NCR, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and six other Indian cities. Its arrival in Bengaluru is going to match its entry in Pune.
- inDrive’s unique price model allows users to set cab fares that they deem fit. It could be a more appealing option for commuters who face staggeringly high cab fares.
- The company also offers intercity rides and freight-carrying services. There are talks of inDrive incorporating regional languages in its services.
Why it matters? For inDrive, launching operations in Bengaluru is part of its global expansion strategy. For Bengalureans, alternatives to Ola and Uber, like Namma Yatri and now, inDrive, could provide relief in the face of unprecedented waiting times.
🛣️ Roof covers for underpasses
Experts in Bengaluru disagree with the BBMP’s plans to install roof covers on underpasses.
Story so far: The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has flagged underpasses near Le Meridien on Cunningham Road-Sankey Road Junction as being prone to flooding. The Palike has also decided to install roof covers on four U-shaped underpasses, including the one at KR Circle.
- The Palike is following the precedent set by other cities like New Delhi. L-shaped underpasses like Mehkri Circle aren’t a cause of concern since they allow a freer flow of water.
- Roof covers will ensure that the water doesn’t rise to abnormally high levels. BBMP officials also plan to repair lights to increase safety.
Criticism: Shrikant S Channal, chairman of the Association of Consulting Civil Engineers, doesn’t agree with the BBMP’s decision. According to him, it’s not a great solution for monsoons when there’s heavy rainfall. The Palike should instead rely on regular maintenance.
🍲 Reviving Indira Canteens
With the government changing hands, Indira Canteens might see a turnaround.
Story so far: The pocket-friendly Indira Canteens have been moribund for years. Many have closed down their shutters for good, and the ones who are open don’t get to see a lot of faces anymore. All that may be about to change with the BBMP devising ways to give them a new lease on life.
- One possible way would be to revamp the menu and add more varieties. This will also mean increasing the quantity served in meals, especially the ₹5-breakfast options.
- The Palike plans to float a tender and offer the contract to the lowest bidder. They’ve also noticed that there’s very little demand for dinner in the establishment, which will have to change.
Commissioner’s take: BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath reveals that they’re taking up Indira Canteen’s revival at the behest of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. For the past three years, the Karnataka state government hasn’t pulled its weight in terms of financial assistance to revive the canteens.
🌳 Forest department short-staffed
The Forest Department’s delay in clearing away trees is due to a dwindling workforce.
What it’s about? BBMP’s Forest Department has its work cut out this monsoon to clear away uprooted trees and scattered boughs. But instead of being on its toes, the department has shown considerable laxity in tidying up after storms, primarily due to being short on people.
- For starters, the Forest Department doesn’t have sufficient forest guards for its 243 wards across Bengaluru. There is only one Range Forest Officer for all eight zones of the BBMP.
- Where there should be 28 Deputy Range Forest Officers, there are only 14. A short-staffed department cannot possibly attend to the volume of work that monsoons entail.
What’s the plan? The Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) has revealed that the department has hired thirteen additional teams to help the BBMP soldier on. While the Forest Department works eight-hour shifts during summers and winters, they have to work round the clock during the monsoons.
✨ Things to do…
Here are some fun and interesting things to do in the city over the weekend!
- Perfect your UX strategy at the Alchemy product ideation workshop on Saturday.
- Laugh along with Kunal Kamra at his ‘So Called Comedian’ show on Saturday.
- Learn Contemporary dance and composition at Shoonya on Sunday.
- Sit back and enjoy the IPL screening and Happy Hours at Chugg Gastro Bar.
- Attend India’s top Dance Festival at the JSS Auditorium on Sunday.
🛋️ Local Lounge
Yesterday’s Poll Results:
- I prefer buying clothes online: 0.0%
- I prefer buying clothes at the store: 100.0% 🏆
That’s it for today. Have a great weekend!