Staff shortage delays operations at Greater Bengaluru Authority, requires 13,000 staff members

The newly formed Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) is grappling with a significant staff shortage, affecting the timely execution of its tasks across five municipalities. An estimated 13,000 staff members are needed to fill crucial roles, especially after the BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike) was restructured into five separate municipalities.

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Previously, around 18,000 employees managed operations within the BBMP jurisdiction, but the division has created new staffing gaps. The shortage is most evident in lower-level positions such as assistant engineers and revenue officers, which has led to delays in municipal work.

GBA to hire 3,000 new staff members

In response, GBA Commissioner has issued instructions to hire 3,000 new staff members to address the immediate shortfall. The state government has also granted approval for these appointments. However, the recruitment process remains ongoing.

Additionally, the Authority is facing another challenge – a delay in salary disbursements. Employees have yet to receive their September pay, and the salary for the first month of GBA operations has also been postponed. Though the funds for the salaries have been released, the GBA Commissioner explained that administrative issues have caused the delay. The salary is expected to be paid soon, with the Commissioner expressing regret over the delay, which should have been resolved before the Dasara festival.

The GBA's leadership is working to address the staffing issues and restore normalcy in its operations.