With 12 more Indira Canteens launched in Bengaluru on Monday, taking the total number to 113, officials say that the response has been varied.
In several areas, patronship has seen a decline, while in others, some canteen operators have increased the quantum of food served from October, as the demand has risen.
Sources said that based on feedback from canteen operators, the BBMP issued a circular to reduce the amount of plates for dinner in several wards. Instead of 500, between 150 and 400 plates will be served in most of the 101 canteens, with exceptions at Kadugodi (450) and Hagaduru (450).
The amount of plates served for breakfast and lunch, which saw an increase to 500 per meal in September (the amount was 400 in August), has been reduced to 450 in most wards.
In the canteens at Subhashnagar, close to the busy city railway station, Mahalakshmipuram, and Jayanagar, the number of plates has been increased to 600 for breakfast and lunch.
So far, more than five lakh plates have been served since the canteens were inaugurated on August 16. As many as 12 kitchens are currently operating and contracts have been given for another 15, said BBMP officials.
Executive Engineer Nandeesh J.R., who is the nodal officer for Indira Canteens, said the remaining 38 canteens will be inaugurated shortly.
“Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has asked us to take convenient dates from local MLAs to inaugurate the canteens,” said Mr. Nandeesh.
On Monday, food for 400 persons was served for lunch in the 12 new canteens, except in K.R. Market, where 600 persons were served. “Even that got over in 45 minutes,” said Mr. Nandeesh.
Greater footfall expected
Since a greater footfall is expected in this area, BBMP officials plan to increase the quantity of food supplied here after getting feedback for a day or two.
Meanwhile, after getting complaints of irregularities in food delivery, the BBMP has decided to hire Junior Commissioned Officers who are retired military officers for each constituency to oversee the production and delivery of food. “Right now, we have recruited 12, we are going to interview more,” said Mr. Nandeesh.
The JCOs will be tasked with overseeing that the standard operating procedure is followed in kitchens and to report on the amount of food dispatched from canteens and how much is being served.