Azim Premji declines CM Siddaramaiah’s request, cites legal hurdles; offers data-driven solutions for Bengaluru traffic
Wipro founder Azim Premji declines Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's request. He cites legal, governance, and SEZ-related limitations. Although he did say he was open to working with him on data-driven solutions for traffic problems in Bengaluru.
Aadrika Tayal 
New Delhi (India) September 25: In response to a letter from Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Wipro founder Azim Premji denies his request to permit minimal public vehicle traffic on the company's Bengaluru campus. This is in order to reduce traffic on the Outer Ring Road (ORR).
Premji’s Legal and SEZ Concerns
Premji states the legal, governance and statutory challenges involved.
He says, “With respect to the specific suggestion of allowing public vehicular movement through our Sarjapur campus, we apprehend significant legal, governance, and statutory challenges since it is an exclusive private property owned by a listed company not intended for public thoroughfare.”
He adds, “That apart it will also be appreciated that our Sarjapur campus is a SEZ providing services to global customers, our contractual conditions mandate stringent, non-negotiable access control norms for governance and compliance. Moreover, public vehicular movement through private property would not be effective as a sustainable, long-term solution.”
However, the corporation indicates that it will be open to working with the state government on a cooperative, data-driven strategy. This to address Bengaluru's traffic problems. It also recommends commissioning a thorough research headed by professionals in urban transport management to create workable solutions.
Proposal for Expert-Led Study
According to him, a scientific, expert-led study is required to address traffic congestion along Bengaluru's Outer Ring Road (ORR) and create long-term solutions. He states the ORR will require a thorough and data-driven approach. It is a crucial export-oriented corridor.
He says, “Such an exercise would allow us to develop a holistic roadmap of effective solutions that are implementable in the short, medium, and long term. To demonstrate our commitment to being a part of the solution, Wipro will be pleased to engage in this process and underwrite a significant portion of the cost for this expert study.”
Premji emphasizes the importance of addressing traffic issues along the ORR. It is an area known as an export-oriented economic hub. He praises Siddaramaiah for acknowledging Wipro's contributions to Karnataka.
Commitment to Collaborative Efforts
Although Mr. Premji turned down the specific request, restating Wipro's dedication to working with the government on mobility issues. He assigns a senior firm representative, Reshmi Shankar, to arrange additional talks with state representatives.
The chief minister had inquired in his letter if Wipro could allow public vehicles to drive on its Sarjapur campus.
