BBMP reopens 11 Indira Canteens after halt over payment issues

Bengaluru, NT Bureau: Eleven Indira Canteens in the southern zone of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) have resumed operations after a brief suspension due to unpaid bills. The canteen operations were halted on July 18, as the contracted organisation failed to clear water and electricity dues.

Established in 2017, these canteens provide affordable meals to local residents, who were significantly affected by the closure. Media reports highlighted the issue, prompting swift action from BBMP officials.

The contracted organisation responsible for managing these canteens had accrued an estimated Rs 40 crore in unpaid bills. Upon review, it was discovered that the organisation had submitted inflated bills, leading to reduced funds from BBMP.

This discrepancy resulted in the suspension of services as per a report by BBMP To address quality and quantity concerns, BBMP has appointed marshals in each Indira Canteen to monitor daily operations. These marshals provide reports on food consumption, which form the basis for fund disbursement.

This system has been in place since November 2021. On July 18, a crucial meeting was held, chaired by the Chief Health Officer (South Zone), with representatives from the contracted organisation and BBMP health officials. During the meeting, all issues were addressed, and the organisation was instructed to reopen the suspended canteens immediately.

As a result, all 11 Indira Canteens in the southern zone were reopened. The BBMP has issued a stern warning to the organisation, stating that any future lapses will result in legal action and alternative arrangements.

Special Commissioner of Health, Suralkar Vikas Kishore, underscored the importance of these canteens and assured residents that measures are being implemented to prevent similar disruptions in the future.