Server crash, glitches disrupt e-Swathu property regularisation | Bengaluru News

Bengaluru: A server crash lasting over four days, coupled with technical glitches in the newly launched e-Swathu software, has slowed the process of regularising more than 97 lakh rural properties in Karnataka. Officials from the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) department assured that the issues would be resolved by the second week of Jan.Chief minister Siddaramaiah had launched the e-Swathu software on Dec 1 to streamline rural property regularisation. Anticipating initial challenges, the department set up a dedicated helpline — 9483476000 — to assist the public.

RDPR minister Priyank Kharge said the department had expected technical issues following the rollout of the scheme. “We had informed the public not to rush to obtain e-Swathu during the first few weeks, as the scheme will be in place for a long period. An internal committee has been formed to address technical issues as and when they arise, and all problems will be resolved soon,” he told TOI.Providing details of public response, Priyank said the helpline had received around 39,650 calls till Saturday, of which nearly 20,000 were from people enquiring whether the system would function properly. “About 19,650 calls were related to issues such as duplication or cancellation of applications, non-reflection of village names, and other problems. We have rectified them,” he said.He confirmed that the recent server outage was linked to a technical failure outside the state. “The issue has since been resolved, and the scheme is currently functioning properly,” he said, referring to the crash of the NIC server in Gujarat.Despite assurances, several applicants continue to face difficulties on the ground. “I visited a gram panchayat near Hesaraghatta to apply for e-Swathu for my cousin’s property. Officials informed us about a server issue and said it would be resolved by the second week of Jan. We plan to visit again,” said Varun Kumar.Officials at gram panchayats say lack of awareness about the online nature of the application process is adding to the pressure. “As a result, people are visiting GP offices. We are guiding them and encouraging them to apply online,” said Kantharaju B, a Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) in Bengaluru Rural district.Another PDO pointed to procedural changes contributing to delays. “Now, the panchayat president’s signature is also required. In many panchayats, presidents are yet to receive login IDs, which has caused further delays in issuing e-Swathu,” the official said.Officials also noted uneven response across regions, with a heavy rush at GPs located near Bengaluru and other cities, while uptake remains low in panchayats situated farther from district and taluk headquarters.Panchayat Raj commissioner Arundathi Chandrashekar confirmed that there were some technical issues earlier, which have now been fixed by the department. “The number of applications for e-Swathu is still low, and we will launch a drive to boost registrations,” she said.