New Delhi: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar ignited a firestorm of criticism after claiming that even divine intervention couldn’t solve Bengaluru’s crippling traffic and infrastructure problems overnight.
His controversial statement, made during the inauguration of a road construction workshop, has drawn sharp rebukes from citizens, urban planners and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), highlighting the deep-seated frustration over the city’s persistent urban woes. “It is impossible to change Bengaluru overnight. Even if God Himself descended, it wouldn’t be possible. However, transformation is achievable if we draft proper plans and implement them effectively.”
Shivakumar’s assertion that “even if God Himself descended, it wouldn’t be possible” to transform Bengaluru overnight sparked outrage on social media. Critics argue that his statement reveals a lack of accountability and a failure to address the city’s worsening traffic congestion, delayed metro expansion, and inadequate public transport. While ambitious projects have been announced, the slow and inconsistent implementation fuels widespread dissatisfaction.
Shivakumar emphasised the need for uniformity, quality, and discipline in urban infrastructure development, announcing the introduction of a handbook that provides standardised designs for bus stops, metro pillars, and traffic junctions. The handbook also addresses tree planting, street lighting, pedestrian infrastructure, and traffic management, aiming to bring consistency across the city.
However, this announcement has failed to appease critics. Economist Mohandas Pai, chairman of Aarin Capital, directly challenged Shivakumar’s statement, highlighting the government’s shortcomings in improving Bengaluru’s infrastructure. Pai criticised incomplete major projects, dilapidated footpaths, and insufficient public transport, demanding urgent action, including the immediate purchase of 5,000 new electric buses and round-the-clock work on metro expansion.
“Minister DK Shivakumar, it has been two years since you became our Minister! We applauded and welcomed you as a strong Minister. But our lives have become much worse!” Pai wrote on X.
Minister @DKShivakumar it has been 2 years since you became our Minister! We applauded and welcomed you as a strong Minister.But our lives have become much worse!Big projects announced!Will take very long and delayed as govt has not completed any project in city on time!
Why… https://t.co/32Kqkzrviv— Mohandas Pai (@TVMohandasPai) February 20, 2025
The BJP also seized the opportunity to criticise Shivakumar’s comments and the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government, accusing them of gross incompetence. BJP leader Mohan Krishna questioned how the government could possibly address Bengaluru’s problems if even God couldn’t.
“It is very unfortunate that the person who said he would make ‘Brand Bengaluru’ has said even God cannot fix this. Then who can?” BJP leader Mohan Krishna was quoted as saying by NDTV adding “God has given an opportunity to a person or a party to serve the people. It is unfortunate that this government has indulged in many activities other than development”
Shivakumar later attempted to clarify his remarks, emphasizing the government’s efforts to resolve Bengaluru’s issues with the release of the new road construction handbook. The handbook aims to address various problems, including road design and bus stand improvements to tackle traffic congestion.
