`Demolition man' sets an example

`Demolition man' sets an example
The Hindu

HUBLI: For all municipal corporations saddled with the problem of encroachments and violations of building rules, Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation appears to hold a candle.

It has just concluded a massive operation to rid the main roads of encroachments.

The operation has proved to be an eye opener for the civic bodies.

In a three-phase, nine-day operation spread over three months, the corporation tackled a complex situation.

The corporation, which was often dubbed as inefficient and corrupt, saw a "miracle" of sorts under the new Commissioner, P. Manivannan.

Mr. Manivannan took charge about a year ago straight from the Chief Minister's Secretariat soon after S.M. Krishna demitted office.

This was his first brush with civic administration after a six-month stint he had with the additional charge of a municipality while working as Assistant Commissioner, Tumkur.

The top brass of the Government openly commended his work. The Department of Urban Development specially asked Mr. Manivannan to make a presentation on "experience sharing" over the encroachment removal before the functionaries handling the civic affairs in the State in Bangalore nearly a month ago.

In his presentation, Mr. Manivannan spoke of establishing the credibility of the administration, involve and get the support of the staff and the people, the meticulous planning before execution and the lessons to be learnt.

On the lessons to be learnt, he says transparency in administration and involvement of non-governmental organisations bring in credibility.

Mr. Manivannan had an ace up his sleeves when he embarked on the venture — namely involving non-governmental organisations (NGOs) who had come under the banner of the agenda groups formed by him for interacting with people.

"First build up the credibility about the civic body with people. Make them trust you and deliver goods impartially" is his approach to the problem.