Building a Better Bengaluru: Highlights from the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, 2024
- Thota Devaraju
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
In a historic move toward smarter and more inclusive urban governance, the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, 2024 lays the groundwork for a dynamic, decentralized, and citizen-first city administration. This visionary legislation aims to transform Bengaluru into a model global city while addressing long-standing challenges of governance, infrastructure, and public service delivery.
Why the Bill Matters
Bengaluru’s exponential growth had outpaced its governance framework. The older systems lacked coordination among multiple civic bodies, leading to service delays and administrative confusion. Recognizing this, the new Bill offers a bold, structured solution through:
Creation of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA).
Formation of up to 10 new City Corporations.
Empowering Ward Committees and Area Sabhas.
Streamlining of public utilities and services across the metropolitan area.
Key Features of the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, 2024
1. Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA)
A central coordinating body to plan, supervise, and facilitate major urban initiatives.It ensures collaboration across City Corporations, civic agencies, and infrastructure providers.
2. City Corporations for Local Governance
To bring governance closer to citizens, Bengaluru will now have smaller, more manageable City Corporations, each with its own elected Mayor and Council, tailored to local needs.
3. Citizens at the Core: Ward Committees and Area Sabhas
Real power flows to neighborhoods through Ward Committees and Area Sabhas — enabling residents to:
Participate in decision-making.
Shape local development plans.
Ensure transparency and accountability.
4. Financial Reforms and Transparent Budgeting
A dedicated Greater Bengaluru Authority Fund will finance projects.The new Finance Advisory Committee will oversee fair resource distribution, performance-linked funding, and infrastructure investments across different city zones.
5. Infrastructure for Tomorrow
The GBA will oversee major citywide projects like:
Development of arterial roads, flyovers, and expressways.
Modernization of water, sewerage, and energy networks.
Climate-resilient planning and green initiatives through a new Climate Action Cell.
6. Focus on Sustainability and Growth
Climate Action Cell: To lead Bengaluru’s response to climate change.
Economic Development Agency: To foster business opportunities, investments, and job creation.
7. Integration of Civic Agencies
Agencies like BDA, BWSSB, BMTC, BMRCL, and BESCOM will work under a unified strategy to enhance public services, ensuring citizens experience seamless urban living.
The Road Ahead
The Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, 2024 is more than legislation — it’s a blueprint for a future-ready Bengaluru.By strengthening institutions, enhancing citizen participation, and focusing on sustainable growth, it promises a city that is more efficient, equitable, and resilient.
✨ Bengaluru is not just growing — it’s transforming!
