Microphone glitches, faulty AC disrupts Belagavi civic body meeting

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Technical glitches involving microphones, a malfunctioning air-conditioner and faulty fans disrupted the monthly council meeting of the Belagavi Municipal Corporation on Wednesday, leaving councillors and officials struggling to conduct proceedings in uncomfortable conditions.

The meeting, chaired by Mayor Preeti Kamakar, was beset by microphone problems from the outset. Members complained that their voices were inaudible or distorted, hampering discussions.

Expressing displeasure, Ms. Kamakar questioned officials for failing to repair the microphones despite being instructed to do so at the previous meeting.

BJP councillor Ravi Dotre also criticised the corporation’s maintenance arrangements. “Who is responsible for maintaining the Belagavi City Corporation? The microphone problem is worsening by the day. The air-conditioner is also not functioning properly. How can such problems persist in the very hall where the corporation’s general council meetings are held?” he asked.

The malfunctioning air-conditioner added to the discomfort as temperatures rose inside the hall. A cooler was briefly switched on, but its operation interfered with the microphone system. Officials subsequently switched it off and turned on the fans.

The disruption drew criticism as the council was scheduled to discuss civic issues, development works and basic amenities for residents.

Councillors urged the administration to ensure proper maintenance of microphones, air-conditioning and fans, and to inspect all equipment before meetings rather than attempting repairs after proceedings began.

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