Bengaluru, Dec 20 (NationPress) Addressing the strong opposition from the BJP and JD (S) regarding the Bengaluru tunnel initiative, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar asserted that regardless of the opposition, he will advocate for the execution of the tunnel road project in Bengaluru.

He made these remarks during the United Christmas celebration in Bengaluru on Saturday, an event organized by the Baldwin Methodist Education Society, which is affiliated with the Methodist Church in India.

Shivakumar discussed the need for infrastructure enhancement in the city, noting that Bengaluru’s increasing population has led to a rise in the number of vehicles. “This is the reason for the resistance to tunnels and flyovers. Yet, no matter who stands against it, I will proceed,” he stated, emphasizing that his efforts are for the benefit of the community rather than personal interests.

It is worth mentioning that the Karnataka Cabinet has recently authorized the development of a short twin-tunnel road and an elevated corridor linking the Hebbal flyover with Mekhri Circle at a cost of ₹2,215 crore to alleviate local traffic congestion, particularly in areas providing access to the Bengaluru airport.

Shivakumar highlighted the vast potential and distinctive culture of Bengaluru.

He reminisced about a conversation with a United States ambassador during 2003-04, when he had the chance to interact with the diplomat in the absence of the then Chief Minister, the late S.M. Krishna. “He inquired about Bengaluru and my profession. I informed him that I was involved in the granite industry,” Deputy CM Shivakumar recounted. The diplomat remarked that Bengaluru holds more potential than New York.

The ambassador noted that Bengaluru's culture is unparalleled and acknowledged the city’s rich history spanning over a century. “God is one, but there are many names. God does not bestow blessings or curses but offers opportunities. It is crucial to understand what we do with those opportunities,” he remarked, underlining the necessity of dreaming to achieve success.

Discussing technological advancements, Shivakumar noted that artificial intelligence has permeated many facets of daily life.

He also shared an experience from a visit to Paris, where he was invited on stage to celebrate his birthday. The Deputy CM mentioned that he has never celebrated his birthday at home. He recounted how a German individual stopped him from blowing out the candles on a cake, reminding him that Indian tradition is about lighting lamps rather than extinguishing them.

“A lamp should be lit, not put out. One should light a lamp with their children, not extinguish it,” he expressed.

Emphasizing communal harmony, Shivakumar noted that a united Christmas was celebrated and highlighted that festivals are joyfully shared in Bengaluru.

Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh and Bishop Anil Kumar John Servand were also present at this significant event.