citizen matters 19may2012 koramangala edition

5 ̀ 72 crores, not even a bus shelter

5 Ecofreaks strike again!7 Bangalore to Boston8 Know your mangoes

9 Listing: Swimming pools10 Will 50% women

councillors help?12 Drug resistant TB:

Danger is real

12 Garden pests-I13 “I always knew I wanted

to be a writer”17 Colours in nature18 Parenting: Me time?

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Page 11

Fortnightly

Citizen Matters Vol-4 Issue-08, 19 May - 1 June 2012 KARENG/2009/28904. Published & Printed by Meera K for Oorvani Media Pvt Ltd. Printed at Lavanya Mudrana, 19, 15th cross, Vidyapeeta Circle, BSK I Stage, Bangalore 560060 Place of Publication Oorvani Media, 165, I cross, I block, Kmgla, Bangalore 560034. editor Subramaniam Vincent.

633, 100 feet Ring Road JP Nagar 3rd Phase, Bengaluru - 560078Tel: 08026593210 fax: [email protected]:9980562020 [email protected]

Dr raja Shekar Y L is the Medical Director, Shekar Nethralaya

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Conjunctivitis, also known as Red Eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid.What causes Red Eye?Red Eye has a number of different causes, including:● Viruses● Bacteria (such as gonorrhea or

chlamydia)● Irritants such as shampoos, dirt,

smoke, and pool chlorine● Allergies, like dust, pollen, or a

special type of allergy that affects some contact lens wearers

Red Eye caused by some bacteria and viruses can spread easily from person to person, but is not a serious health risk if diagnosed promptly. Red Eye in newborn babies, however, should be reported to a doctor immediately.What Are the Symptoms of Red Eye?The symptoms of Red Eye differ based on the cause of the inflammation, but may include:● Redness in the white of the eye or inner

eyelid● Increased amount of tears● Thick yellow discharge that crusts over

the eyelashes, especially after sleep● Green or white discharge from the eye● Itchy eyes● Burning eyes● Blurred vision● Increased sensitivity to light● Pricking / Foreign body sensationSee your eye doctor if you have any of these symptoms of Red Eye. How is Red Eye treated?The treatment for Red Eye depends on the cause.What can I do to relieve symptoms of Red Eye?To relieve the symptoms of Red Eye:● Protect your eyes from dirt and other

irritating substances.

● Avoid the use of makeup.● Remove contact lenses, if you wear

them.● Non-prescription “artificial tears,” a

type of eye drops, may help relieve itching and burning from the irritating substances causing your Red Eye.

Note: Do not use the same bottle of drops in an uninfected eye.How can I prevent spreading Red Eye?If you or your child has Red Eye:● Don’t touch or rub the infected eye(s).● Wash your hands often with soap and

warm water.● Wash any discharge from your eyes

several times a day using a fresh sterilized cotton ball or paper towel. Afterwards, discard the cotton ball or paper towel and wash your hands with soap and warm water.

● Wash your bed linens, pillowcases, and towels in hot water and detergent.

● Avoid wearing eye makeup.● Don’t share eye makeup with anyone.● Never wear another person’s contact

lenses.● Wear eyeglasses instead of contact

lenses. Throw away disposable lenses or be sure to clean extended wear lenses and all eyewear cases.

● Avoid sharing common articles such as unwashed towels, glasses and mobile phone.

● Wash your hands after applying the eye drops or ointment to your eye or your child’s eye.

● Do not use eye drops that were used for an infected eye in a non-infected eye.

● If your child has bacterial or viral Red Eye, keep your child home from school or day care until he or she is no longer contagious. It’s usually safe to return to school when symptoms have been resolved; however, it’s important to continue practicing good hygiene just to be sure.

What are the complications of Red Eye?Usually, Red Eye is a self-limited disease, either clearing up on its own or after a course of antibiotics. However, certain forms of conjunctivitis can become serious and sight-threatening. They include conjunctivitis caused by gonorrhea, chlamydia or certain strains of the adeno virus.

How Can I Avoid Getting Redeye?Viral redeye is highly contagious. However, maintaining proper hygiene such as frequent hand washing should minimize transmission. Avoid touching your face since the virus can enter the eyes, nose, and mouth. With regards to allergic conjunctivitis, avoiding allergens and taking proper care of your contact lenses can help reduce your risk. If someone in your household has redeye, be sure to wash hands often and thoroughly. Avoid sharing washcloths, towels, pillowcases, mascara, or eyeliner with the person.Eye drops are commonly given to treat conjunctivitis.

All you need to know about red eye

Vol-4 Issue-08 19 May - 1 June 2012 CITIZEN MATTERS 5

The Ecofreaks were at it again, this time doing a cleanup in Ejipura,

Koramangala 6th Block, on a bridge over a drain. The bridge was on a busy stretch surrounded by paying guest houses; there was stench from the garbage heap on the bridge and the sewage flow below.

A BBMP truck first carted away garbage from the site. Then the two Ecofreaks founders Vasudha Kaul and Ashutosh Garg, and a volunteer Sheela Kabra Ladha levelled the site. They removed plastic waste, covered the site with gravel and painted the place with red oxide. Another volunteer Nitika Goel helped them with the painting. The result was a considerably cleaner stretch.

Ecofreaks say that 90% of the places that they cleaned so far

have remained clean. For a clean-up in your locality, you can contact Ecofreaks at 9986221010.

Ecofreaks, a non-profit, was started this January with the objective of

cleaning up small areas (spot fixing) around the neighbourhood.

Gaana Srinivas is a student of Mt Carmel College and a summer intern

at Citizen Matters

Ecofreaks strike again!

After `72 crores, not even a bus shelter

Commuters on the 80 feet road near National Games Village(NGV), connecting Vivek Nagar and Inner

Ring road, avail buses outside the swanky Traffic and Transit Management Centre (TTMC) without a bus shelter. Koramangala TTMC, a Rs 72 crore project, is still not operational after its launch about a year ago. Empty buses go into the centre, but passengers cannot avail services from inside and have to wait outside, under the hot sun.

According to a TTMC appraisal report from Karnataka’s

Directorate of Urban Land Transport, the TTMC would cater to 3000 trips (carrying 70,000 passengers) a day, with 200 originating here and 2800 passing through it. The report was published while the TTMC was under construction. A copy of this report is with Citizen Matters.

Citizen Matters could not reach Sabina Begum U, Assistant Traffic Manager at the TTMC, as she was on leave and would be back only next week.

Anil Kumar, an RTI activist, says that initially there was a bus shelter, but that officials removed it so that it would not interfere with the view of newly-constructed TTMC.

More lifts, the merrier

Inside the TTMC, a portion of the marble floor is being dug up, and a part of the ceiling directly above it has also been opened up. Enquiry revealed that work was advancing to set up a new lift, though this building already has four lifts. An official here, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed this. Muralidhar Rao, a Koramangala resident and activist, suspects racketeering. Citizen Matters was not able to get more details as Sabina Begum was on leave. Stay tuned.

AbhiShek [email protected]

People boarding buses outside TTMC without any shelter. Pic: Abhishek Angad

Before the cleanup. Pic: Gaana Srinivas

After the cleanup. Pic: Gaana Srinivas

KoraMangala & HSr laYout

6 CITIZEN MATTERS 19 May - 1 June 2012 Vol-4 Issue-08

Residents of Koramangala 4th cross, 7th block are annoyed

by commercial vehicles, especially four-wheelers, clogging their residential area. The area surrounds Bheemachandra Kalyana Mantapa and at any time one can see roughly 50 cars parked.

Residents complain that employees of the electronics company Bosch located nearby, park their vehicles here. However, Deeksha Travels, hired by Tata Docomo-Koramangala Branch is also creating nuisance by parking

their commercial vehicles.

Residents complain that Deeksha Travels’ vehicles are utilising the public road for parking. Worse, the drivers fight among themselves for parking.

Vinod Muthu, a resident, says that in spite of repeated complaints to authorities, there is no respite. He says, “The road is jammed during peak hours and sometimes we are not able to park our own vehicles.”

Citizen Matters spoke to the concerned

traffic police officers, but it appears they have also given up. Adugodi Police Inspector (Traffic) S V Tejaswi seemed aware of the situation as they often book violation cases against Deeksha Travels. He says, “We are working in our full capacity to check commercial parking in residential areas. I have also complained about this to our senior officials but still they (Deeksha Travels) flout rules.”

Several attempts to get a response from Deeksha Travels and Tata Tele Services (Head Office of Tata Docomo branch), Koramangala, did not elicit any result.

Tejaswi confirms that until now there have been 30 complaints from residents about this problem. He seemed helpless, but promised to take action immediately. Assistant Commissioner of Police, Adugodi, Shrinivas Murthy declined to comment.


Commercial vehicles choking 7th Block

Vehicles parked illegally on roads. Pic: Abhishek Angad

Meeting held to ignite agara lake restoration

“How do we start?” was the question on everybody’s mind.

With the agenda of saving Agara lake, an informal brainstorming session, facilitated by Citizen Matters, happened at Mantri Sarovar apartments, HSR Layout on 15th May.

Vijayan Menon, member of Citizens’ Active Forum and a Koramangala resident, Brig R S Murthy of HSR Federation, Chandrashekhar, an RTI activist, Muralidhar Rao, member of Save Koramangala group, Ramesh Sivaram, of Forward150 federation and Ganesan M, member of Save Agara group and Citizen Matters co-founder Meera K, gathered in the evening.

With the HC cancelling Agara lake’s PPP contract recently, the LDA is open to citizen involvement to save the lake. That was the context.

The residents, agreed that the 42-acre lake would be a big challenge to revive. Menon pointed out that without healthy water bodies to revive the groundwater table, future of our neighbourhoods would be bleak indeed.

Among the key points discussed, the

first step is get a complete survey of the lake done and delineate its boundary. Participants discussed examples such as Meistripalya and Puttenahalli and how to begin with Agara. Sivaram has been closely involved with the revival of the Kaikondrahalli Lake and shared those experiences as well

Menon talked about their public interest litigation to save Meistripalya Kere in Koramangala. He stressed on the importance of citizens involvement in saving lakes. Sivaram proposed an Agara lake cleaning campaign to bring the lake into focus and involve nearby residents.

People interested in saving Agara lake can get in touch with Ganesan M at 9845738133.

AniShA [email protected]

Agara lake. Pic: Anisha Nair

In & arounD


He started running because it was the most convenient and simply accessible way to work out.

Ashok Nath, 49, is a Boston Marathon qualifier. After moving out of the corporate world, he now writes on running and fitness. He is also setting up a venture that will primarily focus on educating runners on correct running

form.

What inspired you to run?

Like any other youngster, I would be more into team games like football, cricket

and so forth. But once I started working, I decided to switch from contact to non-contact sports to minimise injuries and yet get a workout. Running, swimming and cycling became the natural choices and of these running was the most convenient.

You have received an award for the Most Inspiring Runner in Applause 2012 – the Bangalore Runners’ Award Ceremony recently. What do you do to inspire and encourage runners?

Quite simply, I lead from the front, by example. I believe that fellow runners see a steely determination in me; a fighting spirit that showcases what is possible if there is heart. At another level, I openly share my knowledge

about running techniques and training through the spoken and written words so that others may learn and improve.

Where have you participated in running apart from Bangalore?

Last year, I decided to raise the bar for myself and test myself at global races.

Presently I am a three time qualifier for the iconic Boston Marathon, and going forward plan to participate in the New York Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon and the London Marathon.

How have you seen the running capital of India (Bangalore) emerge?

It has been a slow process but a positive one nevertheless. Our salubrious weather makes running an easier sport to adopt than in other cities and we have the benefit of having several players in the running ecosystem here. Just come to Cubbon Park on a Sunday, or even visit Kanteerava Stadium in the mornings, and you will see runners of all ages running to stay fit.


local MatterS

NiMMa neigHbouR

Bangalore to Boston

As a former Brand Consultant, I see a marketing opportuni-ty for a Private-Public Partnership in estab-lishing “sports parks”.

Pic: Marathon fotos

pOLICE ASKS CITIzENS TO INvESTIGATE!

in the Citizen Matters issue dated May 5, Brig (retd) R S Murthy

reported on the illegal dumping of debris on 27th and 28th main road in HSR layout. Members of Sector II RWA clicked pictures of illegal dumping incidents.Sanjiv Balagopal, on behalf of the association, had sent a complaint to the HSR layout police station on April 8th, 2012. He asked the police to investigate and take action. The letter contained number plate details of the truck and dumping, along with a CD containing pictures.In return, one month later, on May 7th, Balagopal received a summon notice from the sub-inspector of police, HSR police station! Not satisfied with

the citizens’ letter, Srinivas Reddy, Inspector, asked Balagopal to go to the spot, investigate and submit a first hand report instead.Speaking to Citizen Matters, Reddy would only say that the citizen to whom the notice was issued had not responded. He declined further comment.Balagopal confirmed he has not gone to the police station. “I do not want to get dragged to the police stations and courts every now and then as an individual,” he says.The citizens merely wanted the police to investigate a public problem, and this is now deadlocked with the police. Citizen Matters has a copy of the summon issued by Inspector Reddy.


Guess where thIs well Is?This well in Koramangala has water available at 20 feet! Guess where the well is? Clue: this is not inside any private property.Email your answers to [email protected] by midnight on Sunday May 20th 2012. The first correct guess gets a special gift.


cHecK outS

Know your mangoes

This year’s mango crop was a latecomer and much

smaller compared to 2011’s bumper produce. “Mango is known for alternate bearing. One year you get a good crop and the succeeding year you get a poor crop.” says Dr G K Mukund, Professor of Horticulture at the University of Agricultural Sciences.

Looking around Bangalore though, it is hard to believe. From department stores toting boxes of luscious yellow fruit to vendors surrounded by mountains of them, mangoes are everywhere! And Bangaloreans are taking advantage of it.

But do you know your mango varieties?

Named after Alphonso De Albuquerque, a Portuguese nobleman who used to carry them on trips to India, the Alphonso variety is justly called the king of fruits. “Badami and Alphonso are the same,” says Mukund. Badami is the local name for Alphonso. It grows mostly in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka.

The sub-variety grown in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra is the best - and the costliest. It is rated as one of the best in India and abroad, thanks to its size and wonderful aroma. This explains the price - `150-250 a kilogram.

Bangalore however seems to favour Banganapalli -

which comes from Andhra Pradesh. “It is the most popular variety here,” says Krishnappa, an employee of Spencer’s Supermarket on 80ft Road in Koramangala. Price is usually `50 per kg.

Neelam and Thotapuri are the other popular varieties. It is the cheapness of Thotapuri that makes it suitable for pulping. Mallika is a hybrid of Neelam and Dasheri. Individual pieces are so big that two or three pieces easily make a kilogram. It is great to eat and excellent for pulping.

Two Bangalore varieties are Amlet and Aishwarya. The latter was developed from the Alphonso by Mukund and released in 2004.

Demand for organic mangoes

Plenty of Bangalore’s mangoes are artificially ripened. Chemicals like calcium carbide and caltar can ripen mangoes within 12 hours, whereas the natural process takes two to three days, according to K C Raghu, Managing Director, Pristine Organics. The practice is popular with dealers looking for a higher price. “The vitamin content is low,” says Raghu, of artificially ripened mangoes.

Bangaloreans are more aware of organic mangoes now. “They are pesticide-free. The taste is different and they are more nutritious,” says Vidya Sadanand, who runs the organic store Adi Naturals (included in list) with her sister-in-law Aparna.

Organic mango choices near younote: This is a free listing. Citizen Matters has not charged vendors for being placed here.

Nisarga Food c/o Green Foundation, BTM 2nd Stage, Dr Vanaja Ramprasad, Ph: 26784509 / 09449861043

In The Pink Organic Bazaar and Restaurant, BTM Layout 2nd Stage, Off Bannerghatta Road, Ph: 99450 01003/ 99451 68462

Adi Naturals, JP Nagar Phase III, Ph: 9945384494/9945517525

Riyaz Ahmed, Jayanagar 4th T Block, Ph: 9739584703

Salonie rego is a student of Mount Carmel College and a summer intern with Citizen Matters.

MAnGo MAPPInG66% of the world’s mango export is from India. Badami is the leading variety in Karnataka, along with raspuri and Malgoa. In coastal Karnataka, Appemedi and Makkeri are grown.

More ABout MAnGoes

Mango season is from April to June. while

sendhura comes in early, most like

Alphonso and raspuri come in mid-season.

Thotapuri, Mallika and neelam are late

season arrivals.

Since the past week, market has been flooded with all varieties of mangoes. Here is a low down on the popular varieties.

Badami: Karnataka’s leading Mango variety. Pic: Salonie Rego

Mallika most magnificent. Pic: Salonie Rego


cHecK outS

NGV Builders ClubNational Games Housing Complex, KHB, Koramangala080-25702247Book/Member/ Walk-in- Membership not neededHot Pools/Jacuzzi – YesLifeguards- Yes

Koramangala ClubCA-17, 6th Cross, 6th Block,+91 80 25531864, 25525333, 25520255, +91 80 42679000 - 309:30 AM to 11:30 AM, 4PM to 5PMMembership requiredBooking: NoGender Segregation: NoHot Pools/ Jacuzzis: NoLifeguard: No

HSR ClubSite no.12, 23rd Cross,HSR Layout, 3rd Sector,+91-80-659776356, +91-80-257239279 AM to 8 PMCharges: Yes, membership not compulsoryBooking: YesGender Segregation: NoHot Pools/ Jacuzzis: NoLifeguard: Yes

IN SOUTH BANGALOREAugusta ClubBrigade Gardenia Campus, 8th Phase, JP Nagar+91-80 4024 2222(Mon to Sun - 3:30am to 7:00pm)Charges: YesBooking: Membership RequiredGender Segregation: NoHot Pools/ Jacuzzis: NoLifeguard:Yes

The Woodrose ClubBrigade Millennium Campus, JP Nagar 7th Phase080-419959996:00am – 1:00pm and3:00pm – 9:00pm (Closed on Tuesdays)Charges: YesBooking: Membership RequiredGender Segregation: NoHot Pools/ Jacuzzis: Yes (Sauna + Jacuzzi)Lifeguard : No

Jayanagar BBMP Swimming Pool (PM Swimming Centre)

Bairasandra Extension, Byrasandra080 2663 0744 ‎5:00-10:00 pmCharges: YesBooking: NoGender Segregation: YesHot Pools/ Jacuzzis: NoLifeguard: Yes

Basavanagudi Aquatic Center ( Bangalore Swimming Pool)Pampa Mahakavi Road, Near-Uttaradi Mutt, Basavanagudi+91-80-26916696/266126755:00 AM to 10:00 PMCharges: YesBooking: NoGender Segregation: YesHot Pools/ Jacuzzis: NoLifeguard:Yes

CITYTarun AssociatesAddress: 19, 2nd Cross, Bethel School road, Annasandrapalya, HALContact: 08025238073, 90086827090936.30-11.00 and 15.00-19.00Book/walk in? : Membership neededTimings for men, women and children?: NoHeated Pools/ Jacuzzi: NoLifeguard: No, only qualified coach always around

Nisha Millet Swimming PoolC/O Catholic Club, No.22, Next To ST Patricks Church, Museum Road09845398443Timings: Depends on batch and ageBook/walk in?: Membership requiredTimings for men, women and children? NoLifeguard: Yes

City Nest Sports CentreNo.18-91/72, 7TH Cross, Eshwara Layout, 2ND Stage, Indiranagar080-252582876.30-21.00Book/walk in? : Pay and useTimings for men, women and children? : Separate slotsHeated Pools/ Jacuzzi: Indoor heated poolLifeguard: Yes

Indiranagar Club9th Main, 4th Cross, HAL II Stage Indiranagar080 41153378, 411533796:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 8:30, Monday HolidayBook/walk in? : Membership requiredHeated Pools/ Jacuzzi: NoLifeguard: Yes

Bangalore Mountaineering ClubNo 69, 3rd Main, KR Garden, Murgeshpalya, Old Airport Road+91-(80)-66495769, +91-(80)-421207196:00 AM to 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 4:00 PM to 7:00 PMBook/Walk-in/ Membership - MembershipLifeguards: YesHot Pools, Jacuzzi, Sauna – No

Zela Health ClubsBF Devatha Plaza, Opposite Bangalore Club, Vittal Mallya Road080 4334 7000, 080 6681 7411, 9663378873Timings- Depends on PackageBook/Member/ Walk-in- Only Members allowed.Hot Pools/Jacuzzi – No, but have Temperature controlled poolsLifeguards- 2 trainers at a time.

Zela Health ClubsBF Devatha Plaza, Opposite Bangalore Club, Vittal Mallya Road080 4334 7000, 080 6681 7411, 9663378873

Timings- Depends on PackageBook/Member/ Walk-in- Only Members allowed.Hot Pools/Jacuzzi – No, but have Temperature controlled poolsLifeguards- 2 trainers at a time.

Sindia Swimming SchoolNo 30/4, Jyothy Aquatic Centre, Kanakapura Road, 3rd Cross, Jyothy Layout,Yelachanahalli+91-80-22428495, +91-80-65667662+91-98801351785 AM to 6 PMCharges: YesBooking: NoGender Segregation: YesHot Pools/ Jacuzzis: NoLifeguard:Yes

Vijayanagar Swim CenterCorporation Swimming Pool7th Main, 9th Cross, RPC Layout, Hampinagar080 - 2340 7604 / 2340 760399169 59701 / 94492 8541998868 33950 / 88928 631196:00 AM to 9:45 PMCharges: YesBooking: NoGender Segregation: YesHot Pools/ Jacuzzis: No

Patel’s Inn ResortNo.1, near R.T.Nagar B.D.A Complex, 2ND Block, Govindraj Garden, 15th Cross, R T Nagar,+91-(80)-23330182,+91-(80)- 233375756AM to 2 PM , 3PM to 8PM, Monday HolidayBook/Walk-in/Membership- Membership and BookingSauna/Jacuzzi: NoLifeguards: Yes

Dolphin Aquatics (Regd.) Ramakrishna Hegde Swimming Pool J.P.Park, Mathikere,080 32327755 or +9181471177475 AM to 9:15 PMCharges: YesBooking: NoGender Segregation: YesHot Pools/ Jacuzzis: NoLifeguard:Yes

Note: This is a free listing and businesses have not been charged.

news desk

WhERE ARE ThE pOOLS?We know. The rains are here and this list would have more useful earlier. Still, better late than never. Catch a local pool and still get cool!

Pic: Wikimedia commons


The Karnataka state cabinet on 7th May announced its decision

to amend law in the next session of the legislature to provide 50 percent reservation for women in urban local bodies, as currently being followed in panchayats. Karnataka has nine city corporations including the recently-added Tumkur. It has 205 other municipalities.

If 50 percent seats went to women in the BBMP council, can this mark a difference in the quality of governance in Bengaluru? Citizen Matters asked some women’s empowerment activists.

Manvel Alur, a member of the civic group Koramangala Initiative disagrees with the government. “What is more important is that a clear set of criteria be given for each position in government, and the candidates be qualified to fill that position based on the criteria (education, clear legal history, past experience in governance etc.),” says Manvel.

In contrast, Jayanagar-based feminist-activist Laxmi Murthy argues that there is evidence to show that elected women representatives are generally more responsive to people’s issues - water, roads, schools, garbage collection etc. “So, if there are more women corporators, it is likely that these issues will get more attention,” she says. Still, Laxmi admits that hopes that women would be less corrupt or less prone to the influence of vested interests have not always come true.

Husbands as fronts

In Koramangala, the corporator is a woman, B N Kokila. “B N Kokila is the front to the ‘real decision maker’, her husband. But having said that, she has learnt about issues over the years, and does respond to local issues sometimes,” says a citizen who requested anonymity.

Laxmi argues that the issue of husbands controlling their wives who have been elected, is blown out of proportion. She believes that male corporators are also influenced by family members - and sons are often proxy for their fathers or other older family members. She feels that this situation can even be fixed.

“There are certainly cases of husbands calling the shots instead of their wives. But these instances can be minimised by providing on-the-job training and capacity building for corporators,” argues Laxmi.

Taking a different line is Brigadier (Retd) R S Murthy, Vice President, Federation of RWAs of HSR Layout. “Last mayor was a lady, but she was unable to speak English correctly and had no technical knowledge of the functionality of BBMP. That is not the kind of reservation we are looking for,” he says.

Ruth Manorama, Bengaluru’s dalit empowerment activist feels that the cabinet’s move will help, but asks state politicians to fix the balance in their own legislative assembly. “We welcome the move, but at the same time we need more women in state assembly. If a mass of women jumps into politics provided conducive environment, things will change,” snaps Ruth.


excluSIVe

Will 50% women councillors help Bengaluru?The Karnataka cabinet on 7th May announced its support for 50% reservation for women in urban local bodies. Another political gimmick?

The reservation change in BBMP would mean that women corporators’ strength is increased to 99. This is an increase of 28 seats, roughly 17 percent. Today, there are 71 women corporators from among the total 198 wards.

50% women reservation for BBMP council, gimmick or empowerment? File pic: Citizen Matters


Less than four months since a High Court order barred

commercialisation of residential areas in Bangalore, flouting the verdict remains the norm in Koramangala. The HC had ruled in January this year (Citizen Matters reported this on January 27) on a petition filed by the Citizens’ Action Forum (CAF) and 12 other individuals. The petitioners had challenged the BDA’s Revised Master Plan 2005-15 (RMP) for allowing commercialisation in residential areas.

As is prevalent around the city, many citizens are converting their residences into bookshops, restaurants and coffee joints. Also, many of these shops are operating without trade licenses from BBMP.

Atta Galatta on 2nd Main, Koramangala 1st Block, was set up after the HC order and does not have a trade license from BBMP to commence trade. Owner of Atta Galatta, Subodh Sankar, says, “We are waiting to get the trade license. We have not started trade and will not start till we get the license.”

But when Citizen Matters visited the centre, the building was open for commercial activity. When asked what will be done if BBMP does not issue trade license, Sankar said that he had not thought about it.

Inspite of the HC ruling, BBMP has not put a check on the situation. A B Hemachandra, Joint Commissioner (South) of BBMP, agreed there were some establishments flouting norms. “No commercial establishment will be allowed in residential areas and we will take action soon,” he says.

Flouting of earlier norms continues

While new commercial hubs are coming up violating the HC order, some existing ones have not been following the older norms either. For instance, according to zoning rules in chapter 8 of the RMP, 75 sq m of the floor area should be set up as parking space by eateries and food joints.

Many establishments do not have a parking space and use their basements for other activities. Barbecue Nation for instance uses its underground parking space as a storeroom for meat and other food products. This is causing parking

congestion around that joint for the residents. A senior employee at the restaurant, speaking on condition he not be named, claims that they will remedy this soon.

S Murlidhar, President of Koramangala 1st Block RWA, says that they have written many letters to Hemachandra and BBMP Health officers. BBMP is yet to take action. Muralidhar says that officials have promised to take action against establishments.

Ajeeth Jagannath, member of Koramangala 1st Block RWA, says, “We as residents face nuisance due to these commercial activities. Commercialisation of residential areas causes parking problems and water shortage.”

When Citizen Matters further asked Hemachandra about the violation of RMP norms by existing establishments, he said that BBMP has set up a committee to check the violations and action will be taken once the inspections are completed.

New RMP for the year 2016-2035

Amidst all this, the BDA has started work on the RMP (2016-2035) and has called for inputs from public for the same.


cM SpecIal

Ajeeth Jagannath, Member of Koramangala 1st Block RWA: “We as residents face nuisance due to commercial activities. Commercialisation causes parking problems and water shortage.”

hC ORdER vIOLATEd IN 4 MONThS

Continuing zoning violations upset Koramangala residents


for Your Info

The spectre of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DRTB) is looming

large. Drug-resistant tuberculosis is one which does not respond to standard anti-tuberculosis treatment. Globally, there were 1.2 million deaths in 2010, out of 8.8 million TB-infected. Over 95 percent of deaths occur in low and middle income countries. The risk of developing active TB is 10 percent but increases if immunity is compromised due to diabetes, HIV or smoking. (Source : WHO factsheet-2010).

The good news is that deaths due to TB came down 40 percent between 1990 and 2010 .

How is DRTB caused?

The basic cause is inappropriate treatment or inadequate doses. TB spreads through air. A drug resistant TB patient sneezing, coughing or spitting, releases organisms and anyone in vicinity can get infected. The risk in our environment, with the national penchant for spitting

everywhere, can well be imagined. Unlike flu or viral diseases, it does not spread fast; risk of infection depends on time spent with patient, own immunity, ventilation, and circulation of air.

How does one suspect that he may be infected?

Usually lungs are affected. However, germs can also be found in kidney, bones, spine, skin, intestine, or may affect a number of organs in a condition called military tuberculosis. If there is chronic unexplained fever with evening rise of temperature, chronic cough , blood in cough, pain in chest, weakness, losing appetite, losing weight without working on it or symptoms concerning the affected organ, you should suspect TB. DRTB may be suspected if patient develops TB again after being treated or does not respond to treatment.

Treatment

Treatment requires costly second line drugs. There is risk of adverse effects. In case of extreme drug resistant tuberculosis (XDR TB), expert care is needed in specialised institution.

drug resistant Tuberculosis: danger is real

HealtH MatterS

CoL (ReTd.) dR MukuL Saxena

Recently, at the second ‘Oota from your Thota’, I attended session on pest control by Dr Rajendra

Hegde from the Vittal Mallya Scientific Research Foundation (VMSRF). He cautioned that the presence of insects on plants does not immediately necessitate an insecticide, as often only a part of the plant is affected. He urged us to observe the type of insect and its nature of ‘attack’ before exterminating it.

He also shared these tips:

Sometimes, a forceful spray of water is enough to dislodge insects from the plant.

Biting insects (beetles and caterpillars) and sucking insects (mealybugs, mites etc) are to be managed differently.

Regular check of plants would ensure that one could immediately remove egg masses on leaves and destroy only those parts of the plant.

Separate hibiscus from other plants as it is a host for insects.

He advised regular spraying during hot weather as

this season is conducive for sucking pests. Neem oil, available in most gardening stores, works against biting insects. He also referred to Soluneem, a water-soluble product of VMSRF that works for sucking insects. He cautioned that most natural solutions take 7-10 days to act, so they are largely preventive and not curative. They cannot protect the plant after insect attack.

Part II will discuss how to handle mildew and mealybugs

ViniTA, a resident of Frazer Town is trying to adopt environmentally-sensitive alternatives in her day-to-day activities and realises it doesn’t

need to be complex.

Powdery mildew. Pic: Vinita

WhAT A pEST! -1

Pic: Wikimedia commons


Christina Daniels, 36, has authored books Ginger lemon

soda pop and and the recent i’ll do it my way on Aamir Khan. A movie reviewer, and a corporate communications professional, she is currently working on a book dedicated to the city that she has seen grow, Bangalore. Like many Bangaloreans, she speaks three languages and understands six! She has a masters degree from London School of Economics and Political Science.

Why Aamir?

If you look at Indian cinema, Aamir’s work continuously pushes the boundaries. And he is always doing something different in his films. Lagaan changed the way we produce films. Even if you look at other films like the Taare Zameen Par and 3 idiots, he brought out subjects like DYSLEXIA and learning and got into national debate. His films open new dimensions.

Did you get to meet Aamir during the period of writing his filmography?

No I did not get to meet him personally. (Did) lots of research. I watched all his movies. I interviewed most of the producers, directors and co-stars who worked with him.

What is the next book that you are working on?

I am currently working on a book on Bangalore. It started out with the idea of writing about the Cantonment area. But now, it’s going to capture the whole of Bangalore in it. One (part) is the strong documentation of photographs of Bangalore and the other is, interviews with people. So what the book will actually look at is, Bangalore – yesterday, today and tomorrow.

How did Ginger Lemon Soda Pop happen?

Well, I wrote the book when I was 29, but the idea was there in my

mind when I was 19.

It is a work of fiction but the landscape is real. It is out of the Bangalore I lived in then. This book is takes you through the ups and downs of a five-year-old girl’s second year in kindergarten.

What do you think about the evolution of movies over the generations?

I think something that was really

good in the older films was; there were very good storytellers.

Technology has evolved, production has evolved but somewhere on the way, we have lost the charm of storytelling. Attention spans of the audience are very short.

Something about your childhood.

I had a lot of friends during my childhood. Being the only child, your friends become extremely important. We played a lot of outdoor games. I have a lot of memories of playing badminton games in parks. We watched a lot of films in the VCR, the cassettes we hired from the libraries.

Your Hobbies?

I love reading and travelling. Watching movies is there all the time.


feature

“I always knew I would be a writer”

Bangalore (in the 70’s and 80’s) was a small town, everybody knew everybody. It was very laidback, peaceful, greener and looked very beautiful.There was elegance and charm and grace.Bangalore today is a lot more international. It is not just cosmopolitan, it’s international. It has become very vibrant and youthful. I think today, you can build a career in Bangalore unlike earlier, when people went out to make a career.

Christina Daniels - writer and author. Pic: Anisha Nair


in this two part series on running, amateur marathon runner and IT

executive K Sridharan writes about the merits of running with shoes or barefoot. Part - II will deal with injuries.

Barefoot running is a rising trend. The sales of minimalist running shoes world over, had increased by more than 283% in the first half of 2011, the New York Times has reported. In the month of December 2011 alone, sales grew by 658%, a report by Leisure Trends Group, a speciality retail market intelligence provider

Why are more and more people taking to barefoot (or minimalist) running these days? If barefoot running was so much better, why don’t we see barefoot running in any of the world class events, in all these years? Why aren’t the elite runners switching over to barefoot/minimalist shoes now?

Running form

As human beings, we walk with heel strike. It goes from heel strike to forefoot strike as we increase the cadence by jogging, running and finally sprinting. All sprinters have forefoot strike. Incidentally, the shoes that sprinters wear are all minimalist shoes with spikes in it to aid better grip and faster running.

All athletes who run 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m, can be observed to have a distinct forefoot strike running form. The only difference being that athletes who run 800m wear spikes that offer sufficient cushion for the heel and midfoot.

From 1500m on, athletes have a

distinct midfoot strike or heel strike with immediate roll over. This is because one cannot run longer distances with forefoot strike. Their shoes/spikes have sole cushioning to lessen the impact and protect the heel from injury.

Barefoot running

Anyone starting to run barefoot will naturally end up having a forefoot strike. This means the strides will be shorter and hence increased cadence. The foot is in contact with the ground for lesser duration. Since the strides are short, the foot strikes close to the body’s center of gravity. The entire body weight is not shifted to the landing foot, hence there is less stress on the knees.

However, it is not possible to run for long distances with forefoot strike. Forefoot strike puts a lot of stress on the ankles. The barefoot runners who run longer distances will eventually switchover to a midfoot strike.

Running with shoes

Why do we need shoes to run? As the distance increases and the foot starts pounding constantly, it is a strain on the heel, ankle and knees. The cushioning reduces the impact.

So why do runners using shoes get injured?

The heel cushion is also driving runners to develop incorrect running forms, which leads to running injuries.

An example that illustrates this point is the way one runs downhill with shoes and without shoes. A runner with shoes on, will invariably land on the heel, while a barefoot runner will land on the forefoot or midfoot while running downhill.

The correct running form is that the foot should hit the ground in line with the knees. The landing should be on mid foot or on heel with immediate rollover. The foot strike is also slightly in front of the body’s center of gravity. This means taking shorter steps and increased cadence.

(Part II - to be continued - on injuries and prevention)

k Sridharan is a bangalore-based marathon runner. he has taken

part in several marathon events in bangalore as well the Standard

Chartered Mumbai Marathon, india’s iAAF certified full marathon event.

claSSIfIeDS & lIStIngS

TO BARE OR TO WEAR-1

running formAs human beings, we walk with heel strike. It goes from heel strike to forefoot strike as we increase the cadence by jogging, running and finally sprinting.

Runn

ings

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Pic: Mahesh Srinivas


a couple of years ago, we talked about

some of our writers who had authored books. We are now happy to share that more Citizen Matters writers have jumped into the bandwagon of published authors.

The latest (and youngest we may add) is Malini Srikrishna. Malini writes a blog online (www.citizenmatters.in/malini-srikrishna). Malini, 14 has just published a book of her poems on Amazon.com. It is said to take the reader on a “roller coaster ride of a teen girl’s life. It talks of best friends and bitter enemies that sometimes you can’t tell apart. Of dreams, death and loss, families, friends, grandparents, memories and menageries - real and imagined.”

You can download the Kindle version for less than a dollar (roughly Rs.50) on Amazon. Malini plans to be a writer and we wish her all the best.

Citizen Matters film critic Christina Daniels, meanwhile has been quite busy with her third book. Her book on Aamir Khan i’ll do it My Way has been received well. She has earlier authored the novel Ginger Soda Lemon Pop, and co-authored Mind blogs 1.0.

Sakuntala Narasimhan, our columnist of course needs no introduction to the Bangaloreans. A award winning journalist with a doctorate in sociology, a gold medalist musician and firebrand

consumer activist. Her books include Sati - A Study of Widow burning

in india and kamaladevi Chattopadhyay - The romantic rebel.

We enjoy bringing you articles from Bangalore’s talented writer community as much as publishing some of the best citizen writers in the city!

Keep reading and keep writing to us!

* * *

eDItorIal

Cover creditsPic: Nagashree Gururaj

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[email protected] Ph: 080 — 41737584Longer versions of all articles are available online.

Citizen Matters is published by Oorvani Media Pvt Ltd to chronicle current affairs of india’s cities, in depth, with a focus on governance, community and culture. More at: citizenmatters.in/main/about.

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Foreign programs: ACCA/ CIMA/ CMA / CPA, Indian Programs: BE (merit coaching)/ Bank exams, CA, CS, ICFAI, ICWA & MBA (all disciplines) supported by latest corporate case studies.Contact: Lalitha Group, #5, Behind Smart, 19th Cross, 24th Main, JP Nagar 5th Phase, Bangalore-78. P h : 0 8 0 — 2 6 4 9 0 9 0 7 , 9902888485, 9448117457Email:[email protected]

cLaSSiFieDS

More citizen Matters writersare now book authors!

HSR LayouTHSR CLUB17TH Cross

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SWAGAT DEPT. STORE9th Main

RUSH PHARMA9th Main 7th Sector

ANDHRA SPICE14th Main, 17th Cross

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SRI SHAKTI RESTAURANTBDA complex 14th Main

EASY BUY SUPER MARKETBelow Nagarjuna green ride Apt. AM ENTERPRISESOpp Nagarjuna green ride Apt.

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errATA: We don’t know how many readers caught the typos on the cover headline in the last issue (vol-4 issue-7) and in the April 7th issue (vol-4 issue-5). We wrote “Who’s side is bbMP on” instead of “Whose side”. and “bdA has it’s way” instead of “its way”. A common mistake maybe, but rather silly and careless of us!

VOL-4 iSSue-7: nimma neighbour Anil kumar was a former employee of indian Telephone industries, not industrial Training institute (as printed). Anil kumar was never a member of ejipura rWA, he is associated with Forward 68- Federation of rWAs of ward 68 (148 now). We apologise for the mistake.


CaMPSEarth Camp 2012Summer camp on careers related to environment, designed for students in grades 8-12. Discover the greener side of you by exploring off-beat careers through field visits, interaction with experts on the field and have loads of fun.21-25 May, #108, 2nd main, 6th cross, koramangala, Ph no: 9886003398, 080-65473921

MuSiCYouth Music FestivalListen to the renderings of Mohana Santaram, Mysore Dayakar, B S Anand and Amrith Kumar.Sun 20 May, 5 pm, The bangalore Gayana Samaja, kr road

Vocal concert by VijnarajaMonthly program of NadasurabhiMay 20, 4.15 pm, The indian heritage Academy hall, 6th block, near Police Station, koramangala

woRkSHoPOrganic Terrace Gardening WorkshopFor more info: www.vmsrf.org, Ph no: 080-26687223, 944862952826 May, VMSrF, bTM 2nd Stage

Carnatic concert appreciation - How to be an educated RasikaLecture Demonstration by Ms. Vidya Subramanian6.30 pm, Friday, 18 May. bangalore international Centre, Teri Complex, 4th Main, 2nd Cross, domlur ii Stage

Certificate course on Videography & Content/Technical Writing4 months complete training on videography & technical writing by industry experts, starting this JuneSri Sri Centre for Media Studies. Jayanagar 4T block. Ph: 9945546077, 080-22448333

wisdom through the LensPhotography workshop by Pierre PoulainPh no: 9900777447 / 080 4206 5280Sat, Jun 16, 10.30 am -6.30 pm, new Acropolis, #203 hM Studios, 67 St. Mark’s road, behind nandhini hotel

exHibiTionfaCe Two faCeDebut solo photography exhibition by Shivaraju5-26 May, Gallery Sumukha, Wilson Garden

THeaTReRangashankara Plays19 Sat Undadi Gunda (K) (also at 3.30 pm)20 Sun Robinson and Crusoe (E), 80 mins (for children above 8 years) (also at 3.30 pm)

22 Tue Aarkanola (K), 95 mins23 Wed Mahimapura (K), 90 mins24 Thu Alegalalli Antaranga (K), 70 mins25 Fri to 27 Sun Neenaanaadre naaneenena? (K), 110 mins (also at 3.30 pm on Sun)29 Tue Devara Hena (K), 80 mins30 Wed, 31 Thu Nam Thimthana (K), 90 mins1 Fri, 2 Sat: Neenaanaadrenaaneenena?rangashankara, 8th Cross, JP nagar, Phase ii, Ph: 2649 3982

Mushaira TheatreMushiara Theatre: A Theatre format where audiences share “shayari” from their lives and the actors create a play out of it on the spot and talk to each other in poetry created on the spot....!!! Come be a part of this exciting improvisational theatre format !!!May 20, 27 at 7 pm, Yours Truly Alma, CMh road, indiranagarPh: 9845243051, 9845853093

MoVieJulie & Julia - CinemaSophy ClubA 2009 American comedy-drama film starring Meryl Streep. The film contrasts the life of chef Julia Child in the early years of her culinary career with the life of young New Yorker Julie Powell, who aspires to cook all 524 recipes in Child’s cookbook in 365 days, a challenge she described on her popular blog that would make her a published author.The movie will follow a discussion about meaningful moments and finding happiness in what you do. Free Admission - Screening & discussion6 pm, Sat 19 May new Acropolis bangalore, #203 hM Studios, 67 St. Mark’s road, behind nandhini hotel

Organising a sale? or a cricket match? or a concert?

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See & Do


Have you ever wondered how important colours are, in the

world of Nature?

Colour is often a way of attracting attention; for these flowers, it is their bright colours that attract bees who will pollinate them and propagate their species.

For animals and birds too, colour is a way of saying, “Here I am!” Nothing depicts colour better than the prismatic plumage of the peacock, flaunting his wonderful tail: The peahen, presumably, chooses the most colourful peacock to be with.

Sometimes, colour helps the creature hide instead of drawing attention. When a Rose-ringed Parakeet sits in a tree, you can hardly see it amongst t h e

leaves. This affords it protection against birds of prey, or from cats.

However, sometimes the lack of colour is also interesting. Though most flowers are coloured brightly, one often sees white flowers. Flowers which bloom at night do not need colour to attract insects; so this white lotus, blooming in a stagnant pond, shows us that white can do just as well when it’s moonlight that insects are going to be flying in!

Black too, is often a colour (or its absence) that helps in Nature. Look at the shiny black plumage

of this Long-billed Crow (or Jungle Crow, as it is called sometimes.) The black

feathers certainly help the bird fly without attracting

attention. That’s why House Crows and

Jungle Crows often seem to appear out of nowhere,

snatch food from your hand or

pick out an u n w a r y

b a b y

bird or egg from the nest, and go off to have a feast!

So... Do look around as you walk, and observe how colours, including black and white, play their part in the natural world around us.

nature feature

deePa MoHan

Colours in natureColours in nature

featureSA

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by D

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i am a mom. I don’t do me time. Except when I am reading Good

housekeeping or Femina or one of those million women’s magazines that go blue in the face extolling the virtues of leaving the children behind in the able care of your husband/mother/mother-in-law/maid and snatching a cup of coffee

in the cafe or a massage in the spa. It all sounds quite delicious, having the children out of your hair at least for a while and having some divine smelling promises-to-make-hair-great concoction in it instead.

Sounds good? Certainly! Sounds doable? Well it depends on how well oiled and supported your

home machinery is. In many cases it requires an obscene amount of planning, so much so that I have a friend who plans coffee/tea/anything as long as it’s out of the house and away from the kids every month with me, only to cancel a couple of days before we are meant to meet. “It requires so much planning and coordinating with

mother in law or the husband that giving up and staying home seems a better option,” she jokes.

There’s another friend who worked for several years before deciding to quit and be home with the kids. “There was a time when I could just pick up my bag and walk out of the house. I don’t know what it is but I cannot do it anymore. The moment you become a stay-at-home mom, your personal time seems to disappear. I am now the husband’s secretary on call, the kids personal chef cum craftsperson cum books and toys organizer,” she says and it sounds like someone’s repeating the voices in my head.

My biggest problem with me time? The after effects. There I am sauntering home after a lovely time at the bookstore or movie hall or the restaurant thinking I should get out more often when I open the door and enter home only to find the living room carpeted with toys which are all mixed up (think Monopoly merging with Pictionary, Mastermind with Snakes and Ladder and Scrabble); the child hasn’t finished his dinner and has snacked on Chocopie instead; both kids are sleepy and waiting for their (equally sleepy) loving mother to put them to bed.

Think I can summon the courage to go out the next time around?

laSt worD

confeSSIonS of a SeconD tIMe MoM

reShMi chakrabortY

Me time? What’s that?

Pic:publicdomainpictures.net

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citizen matters 19may2012 koramangala edition