New commissioner Manjunath Prasad reveals BBMP’s plan to tackle COVID-19 situation in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: As Bengaluru has 27,969 active COVID-19 cases and reported 736 deaths so far, Asianet Newsable reached out to Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike's new commissioner “silent killer” Manjunath Prasad who is known for handling tough situations calmly and winning.

When he first became the BBMP Commissioner, the garbage issue was at its peak as many contractors had revolted. He ensured that the issue does not hamper city administration.

Following the Karnataka high court's direction on banner culture in the city, Manjunath, with officials, cracked the whip on banner advertising mafia and got rid of ugly posters and banners and  many were booked under criminal cases.

Now, once again when the situation looks gloomy with coronavirus cases increasing, Manjunath, who was promoted as principal secretary to the revenue department, was brought back as BBMP chief.

Manjunath spoke exclusively with Asianet Newsable and outlined BBMP's preparation to fight COVID-19 and shared his thoughts on the existing COVID situation.

The commissioner said 95% people need not require hospitalisation and if care is taken at home, they can beat COVID. To flatten the curve, rapid testing will be increased to 20,000 persons being tested in a day. And, a person can get results within 30 minutes and his treatment can be planned. In all, the BBMP is planning to trace 43,000 persons in the city. And, also it will test and isolate people who are aged and have comorbidities.