Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced the development of an integrated digital platform to manage traffic congestion in Bengaluru , one of the key proposals in the state budget presented on Friday.
The platform, to be developed at a cost of ₹25 crore, aims to improve traffic management in the rapidly growing city by integrating and analysing data collected by multiple traffic management agencies.
Presenting his record 17th state budget, Siddaramaiah said the system will help streamline traffic operations in Bengaluru by consolidating data that is currently managed separately by different departments.
The digital platform will enable authorities to analyse traffic patterns and coordinate responses more effectively, ultimately helping to ensure smoother traffic movement across the city.
The budget also includes enhanced security measures in state prisons under a programme called 'Operation Parishuddhikarana.'
Under this initiative, advanced surveillance and monitoring equipment will be installed at a cost of ₹20 crore. The plan includes:
These measures are aimed at preventing illegal activities inside prisons, including the use of mobile phones, drug consumption, and smuggling of prohibited items.
The Chief Minister also announced the creation of a permanent Police and Police Auxiliary Services Recruitment Board to ensure systematic and transparent recruitment within the Home Department.
During the current year, the government plans to fill 8,000 vacant posts through direct recruitment.
Siddaramaiah noted that 5,911 vacancies in the police department have already been filled in the past three years.
The state government also plans to strengthen its fight against drug abuse.
An Anti-Narcotics Task Force unit will be upgraded at a cost of ₹10 crore, as part of the government's mission of 'Zero Tolerance to Drugs' and efforts to make Karnataka a drug-free state.
Additionally, a drug de-addiction centre will be established at the Bengaluru Central Prison.
To address the challenges of policing in urban areas, the Chief Minister announced the creation of an Urban Policing Innovation Centre.
The centre will focus on tackling policing challenges in major cities, particularly Bengaluru, and will operate in collaboration with GBA and corporate partners through CSR funding.
The government also plans to expand police infrastructure across the state.
The measures are aimed at improving law enforcement, traffic management, and public safety across Karnataka.