The Urban Development Department (UDD) is agog with speculation over who is going to take over as its boss as the current Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), SR Umashankar (IAS:1990:KN), is all set to retire on April 30.
The role assumes significance as it involves coordination among key parastatal bodies such as BBMP, Bangalore Development Authority, BWSSB and others. This role is a subject of speculation because it’s crucial for city’s infrastructure.
If top sources in the government are to be believed, current BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Girinath (IAS:1993:KN) is a clear frontrunner for the post. What weighs in his favour is the fact that he has been serving as BBMP Chief Commissioner for last 2.5 years and has already headed two crucial departments – Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM) and Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB).
He is understood to have deep understanding of city administration and hence is considered to be a perfect match for the role.
But the race is not without competition. Gaurav Gupta (IAS:1990:KN), an officer of the same ACS ranks, is also in the fray. Gupta is currently serving as Secretary of the Energy Department.
Like Girinath, Gupta has also served in both BBMP and BWSSB, and is familiar with the city’s challenges and potential solutions. But having worked closely with Bengaluru Development Minister DK Shivakumar over the past 2.5 years, Girinath is believed to have an edge.
The name of Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited Managing Director Maheshwar Rao (IAS:1995:KN) is also in contention. He also holds ACS rank and has served in BBMP but he is said unlikely to succeed.
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