Mysore task force to be abolished

The Mysore Agenda Task Force (MATF), constituted by the S M Krishna government four years ago, is being abolished.

It was set up with the fond hope that it will emulate its Bangalore counterpart in helping Mysore to develop in the right direction.

But of late, it has been caught in a controversy, with its members expressing divergent views in the media openly. This has often embarrassed the Mysore City Corporation and its programmes and policies.

The recent repeated attacks on the Mysore City Corporation and its administration over the supply of drinking water to the city by one of its members had come in for strong condemnation from corporators at their meetings and also by the corporation commissioner and the mayor.

Some of their criticisms of proposed development projects like the Chamundi Hill ropeway and the Kabini 2nd Stage water supply to Mysore have also come in for criticism both from the public and the media.

In the background of this, new district incharge minister Tanvir Sait on Wednesday observed, "There is no use continuing with the MATF which has failed in its objectives. It has no specific direction or powers. As a result, it has contributed very little to the planned development of Mysore, unlike the Bangalore Agenda Task Force."

"The MATF has failed to contribute anything in respect of tourism, employment and other potential growth areas of Mysore. It has also not evinced any interest. On the other hand, it is creating confusion in the minds of the public by issuing contradictory statements to the press. Hence, there is no use or meaning in continuing with such a body," he said at a press conference, after inaugurating his office as District Minister at the zilla panchayat.

"Therefore, as district minister I have taken a decision for its abolition. I am requesting the chief minister on Thursday to take steps in this direction," Sait, who succeeded deposed deputy chief minister Siddaramaiah as the district incharge minister said.

Indicating that he was for a broader metropolitan task force for Mysore, in view of it being the second fastest growing city after Bangalore and an important heritage city, he said such a body can contribute better for its planned development, with clear objectives and powers.