BBMP mulls opening 50 new Indira Canteens in Bengaluru

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: In an ambitious move, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has announced that it will rejuvenate Indira Canteens, a lifeline providing affordable meals to the city's underprivileged and laborers.

Amid preparations to revitalize existing canteens, the civic body is also gearing up for the construction of 50 new outlets, marking a significant stride in Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's visionary project initiated in 2016.

The canteens, which were neglected during previous administrations, are set for a comprehensive makeover, signifying a renewed commitment by the current government.

Siddaramaiah, immediately after assuming power, had issued a directive to revive discussions, prompting the allocation of grants for construction and refurbishment.

The BBMP is investing 2.50 crores from its funds toward the repair and maintenance of 169 fixed and 16 mobile canteens.

Indira Canteen in every ward: Palike

In a bid to expand accessibility, plans are underway to erect new canteens across each ward with populated areas, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities in consideration.

This will help add the outlets in alignment with the increased number of wards under the BBMP. The proposed tenders for construction and food supply await government approval, with plans to modify the menu as per demand.

Presently, 159 fixed canteens serve around 50-60 thousand individuals daily, demonstrating the pivotal role these establishments play in addressing hunger among marginalized communities.

Additionally, efforts to enhance the infrastructure include the establishment of Indira Kitchens across assembly constituencies. While 19 kitchens have been constructed, the focus now is on repairing and operationalizing the remaining 11.

The state government's allocation of Rs 10 crore aims to facilitate the construction of eight new kitchens, streamlining food supply to all canteens.