A 31-year-old Bengaluru-based product designer, Jyothish VM, has launched a civic reporting platform called ‘NammaKasa', which allows residents to report issues such as garbage through photos on a live map. The platform is designed to enable users to flag problems in less than 30 seconds and has been built using open-source tools without requiring any login, The New Indian Express reported.
The platform was launched on April 8 and, within four days, it recorded over 230 complaints. Of these, two issues have been resolved so far. During the same period, the platform also saw participation from nearly 45,000 users, indicating a significant level of public engagement.
Speaking about the idea behind the initiative, Jyothish told TNIE that he, “often found myself complaining about civic issues and garbage in the city. Then I realised that instead of just expressing frustration, I should take action.” He explained that what started as a response to everyday civic concerns gradually focused more on addressing the issue of garbage in the city.
He also said that he did not expect such a large response from the public. “I did not anticipate this kind of response. It shows that people genuinely care about the city,” he said.
One of the main features of the platform is its focus on accountability. Reported issues are displayed publicly on a live map and are linked to elected representatives, including Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs).
Jyothish said, “When issues are visible to everyone, it becomes easier to push for action,” adding that there are plans to integrate local authorities such as the Greater Bengaluru Authority and waste management teams in the future.
He also said that work is underway to develop dashboards and share data insights with authorities to improve response mechanisms. “This platform can serve as a way for the government to better identify and understand problems,” he said.
The initiative also aims to encourage behavioural change among residents. Jyothish said, “When people see issues mapped publicly, they begin to feel a sense of responsibility. Change has to start with all of us.”
As the platform continues to gain traction, it currently focuses mainly on garbage-related issues but is expected to expand to cover other civic concerns. Jyothish also said that the platform will remain non-commercial and will continue to focus on promoting civic participation.
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