M.K. Savitha speaks exclusively with Star of Mysore after assuming charge as new MCC Commissioner 

Mysuru: Selection Grade KAS Officer and Registrar of the University of Mysore, M.K. Savitha, who has been appointed as the Commissioner of the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC), replacing IAS Officer Shaikh Tanveer Asif, has a challenging task ahead. 

With the MCC having directed footpath vendors to voluntarily clear encroachments by July 12 or face action from July 13, Savitha, who earlier served as MCC Deputy Commissioner (Administration), says the Corporation will take action on the lines of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA). 

She also wants to give fresh impetus to the long-pending Greater MCC proposal. Here are excerpts from an exclusive interview of Savitha with Star of Mysore this morning: 

Star of Mysore (SOM): Like Bengaluru, will you launch footpath encroachment clearance drive in Mysuru? 

M.K. Savitha: Yes, definitely. The encroachment clearance drive will be undertaken after collecting details of encroachments from the respective Zonal Commissioners, strictly within the ambit of the law. The outgoing Commissioner has already held a meeting in this regard. Similar to the drive being carried out in Bengaluru under the leadership of the Minister, appropriate action will be taken in Mysuru as well. 

SOM: The Outer Ring Road (ORR) has turned into a dumping yard due to unregulated disposal of waste. Will this affect MCC’s prospects in Swachhata Survekshan? 

Savitha: Maintaining cleanliness is MCC’s top priority. Mysuru has consistently secured high rankings in Swachhata Survekshan. Even last year, several initiatives were taken to maintain the city’s cleanliness. I will inspect different parts of the city, review the situation with officials and prepare an action plan accordingly. 

SOM: Many roads are damaged, with potholes and loose gravel causing accidents. What are your plans to address this? 

Savitha: Providing basic infrastructure is one of the MCC’s primary responsibilities. With the onset of monsoon, engineers will be instructed to identify vulnerable stretches and ensure that potholes are filled at the earliest. 

SOM: There are reports that grants from the State Government to the MCC have been reduced. Will you seek additional funds? 

Savitha: I will take up the matter with the Minister concerned and seek additional financial support, including special grants for MCC. As the Greater MCC proposal is under consideration, we will also submit the city’s requirements to the Chief Minister and seek adequate funding. 

SOM: There seems to be some confusion over Greater MCC or Grade-1 city. Is MCC making any preparations in this regard? 

Savitha: I will review the status of both proposals. Efforts will be made to prepare the necessary guidelines and forward them to the Government to expedite the process. 

SOM: White-topping works are underway across the city. With Dasara approaching, how will the MCC tackle traffic congestion? 

Savitha: Our Deputy Commissioner has previously served as the MCC Commissioner and has considerable experience. The DC is personally monitoring the works. The MCC will coordinate with the Police to ensure that the public faces minimal inconvenience. 

SOM: Earlier, you had served as MCC Deputy Commissioner, which may come in handy in handling the new role… 

Savitha: Yes. My previous stint at the MCC has given me the confidence to take on this responsibility. The Commissioner’s post comes with several challenges and demands complete dedication. I have earlier served as Deputy Commissioner (Administration) and Zonal Commissioner. I believe success can be achieved only through teamwork. 

SOM: In the absence of elected Corporators, there may be fewer public grievances reaching MCC. How do you plan to handle the situation? 

Savitha: The administrative machinery functions more effectively when elected Corporators are in place. Their suggestions and feedback strengthen the system. I hope the elections are held soon and a new Council is constituted. I am confident that the Corporators will extend their support to the administration. 

Priority-wise, I will prepare a target-based action plan and work in coordination with local MLAs, Ministers and other public representatives. I do not intend to remain confined to my office. I will be in the field and work towards the planned development of the city.