While there is no end to the garbage problem in Bengaluru, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) will start a pilot project of using blockchain technology to make its complaint redressal systems more transparent and accountable. A blockchain is a series of unchangeable record of data that is managed by a cluster of computers not owned by any single entity. Each of these blocks of data (i.e. block) are secured and connected to each other using cryptographic principles (i.e. chain).
The pilot will be funded by a non-profit CITAG -- Citizen Involved & Technology assisted Governance, which is mentored by senior Karnataka-based IAS officer Captain Manivannan.The project will be funded by the fellowship that Manivannan has obtained from Harvard University.
“CITAG approached us with a proposal that they would develop a blockchain-based complaints grievance system at their own cost. Blockchain technology will make it tamper-proof. So all players on the platform can see actions that have been taken regarding a complaint. There is a lot of data integrity and transparency involved in having such a blockchain-based helpline. Different stages of the redressal will be visible to everybody,” Randeep D, BBMP Special Commissioner told TNM.
He added, “The complainants can post their reactions vis-a-vis their satisfaction to the steps taken to address his/her complaint. This level of transparency will exist so that there is some pressure on officials also to deliver on the ground and so that it reflects online as well.”
Based on the success of the pilot project, the BBMP will decide if it will be expanded.
GR Chandran, co-founder of CITAG, said that they have got a green signal from the BBMP and the pilot is expected to begin in the first week of June.
“The key differentiating factor will be — you will have better information about the complaint you are raising, that is not just the status of the complaint but also exact information of who is currently handling the problem, when it is expected to get resolved. If it is not resolved within the expected time period, it will be escalated and will get more traction within BBMP,” he said.
“We also plan to launch a rating/ review system with respect to complaint redressal based on jurisdiction or staff member,” he added.