After Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw criticises city’s infra, DK Shivakumar says, 'Instead of tearing Bengaluru down, let’s build it up'

Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's tweet about Bengaluru’s infrastructure, prompted by an overseas visitor’s remarks during a visit to Biocon Park, has gone viral on social media.

"Why are the roads so bad and why is there so much garbage around? Doesn’t the government want to support investment? I have just come from China and can’t understand why India can’t get its act together, especially when the winds are favourable?" she posted on X.

Also, read: ‘Why are roads so bad?’: Biocon founder Kiran Majumdar Shaw shares foreign visitor’s blunt critique of Bengaluru infra

I had an overseas business visitor to Biocon Park who said ‘ Why are the roads so bad and why is there so much garbage around? Doesn’t the Govt want to support investment? I have just come from China and cant understand why India can’t get its act together especially when the…

— Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (@kiranshaw) October 13, 2025

Responding to the criticism, deputy CM and Bengaluru Development Minister DK Shivakumar said: "Instead of tearing Bengaluru down, it’s time to build the city up together. We are addressing challenges with focus and urgency. Rs 1,100 crore has been sanctioned for road repairs, over 10,000 potholes identified, and more than 5,000 have already been fixed on priority."

Bengaluru has given opportunities, identity, and success to millions - it deserves collective effort, not constant criticism.

Yes, challenges exist, but we’re addressing them with focus and urgency. ₹1,100 crore has been sanctioned for road repairs, 10000+ potholes identified,…

— DK Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar) October 14, 2025

Shivakumar also highlighted major infrastructure initiatives, including the Central Silk Board–KR Pura redevelopment and the construction of Elevated Corridors. "Under the Greater Bengaluru Authority, the East Corporation will retain Rs 1,673 crore of its revenues to directly improve infrastructure across 50 wards, benefiting key IT corridors. The world sees India through Bengaluru, and we owe it to our city to rise united," he said, urging collective efforts to enhance the city’s global competitiveness.

Replying to Shivakumar's tweet, Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw said: ‘I agree with you - it’s a collective effort with a mindset of urgency and quality. Let’s show everyone how we can fix our city.’

Meanwhile, Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge told news agency: "I am not sure which part of Bengaluru they have seen. Work is in progress. We are growing rapidly, and all necessary infrastructure improvements are underway."

Minister MB Patil added: "Kiran Mazumdar is a big asset to our state and country. Bengaluru has also given back to her. While some potholes existed earlier, thousands of crores have been allocated and work is ongoing. Tweeting criticism again while work is in progress is not in good taste."