Why is K’taka government opposing BJP MP's comments on the Bengaluru-Tumakuru metro project?

Bengaluru, May 19 (NationPress) The Karnataka government responded sharply on Monday to Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya, who criticized the proposed extension of the metro project to Tumakuru city, labeling it a ‘foolish idea.

“Two MPs from Bengaluru have raised objections to the project. They seem to lack understanding. One has even termed it a foolish idea. It’s understandable to face opposition like this,” stated Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara during a press briefing.

While not explicitly naming Surya, Parameshwara remarked, “I had hoped this MP possessed some insight about international urban development. Cities like Tokyo and New York have successfully developed satellite towns to alleviate urban stress, and our goal aligns with that—to ease the load on Bengaluru.”

He emphasized that the project isn't designed for ‘entertainment’, urging careful consideration before making such comments.

Parameshwara pointed out that Union Minister of State for Railways, V. Somanna, who serves the Tumakuru Lok Sabha constituency, understands the circumstances well.

The Home Minister reassured that the project was meticulously planned, devoid of any malice.

“A decade ago, I mentioned that expanding metro services to Tumakuru would help reduce pressure on Bengaluru,” he noted.

He added that the influx of settlers to Tumakuru has significantly increased since the Hemavathi River water issue was resolved.

“I have long championed the extension of the Metro line to Tumakuru. I also persuaded the Chief Minister to endorse the project. A Hyderabad-based company has been hired to conduct a feasibility study, and the report is now under review, considering its benefits and drawbacks,” he detailed.

Parameshwara explained the next step involves deciding whether the Metro line will run above or alongside the National Highway, necessitating the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR).

“Our aim is to enhance commuting between Bengaluru and Tumakuru. With Bengaluru's rapid growth, 20,000 acres have been designated as an industrial hub in Tumakuru, promising significant advantages for the populace,” he stated.

Currently, a one-hour journey from Tumakuru to Bengaluru takes two hours. “Tumakuru has the potential for growth, being only 60 kilometers from Bengaluru,” he added.

When queried about a potential second airport in Bengaluru, Parameshwara mentioned that the Bidadi area on the outskirts and Nelamangala in Tumakuru district are both being evaluated as options for the new airport.

He acknowledged that if the second airport is established in Nelamangala, the Metro extension would be a valuable addition.

“The Quin City project, spanning 5,000 acres from Dabuspet in Tumakuru to Devanahalli, is underway, with land acquisition in progress. All these elements must be taken into account. This will be executed via the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, allowing private entities to invest and recoup their expenses over a 20 to 30-year lease,” Parameshwara clarified.

Previously, Tejasvi Surya had called the Karnataka government's metro extension plan to Tumakuru a “foolish idea.”

“They should prioritize the timely completion of existing lines and further densifying the network within Bengaluru. The Metro should primarily address intra-city connectivity,” he remarked.

In response to another inquiry, Parameshwara confirmed that appointments to boards and corporations have been finalized. In specific instances, individuals have been assigned additional responsibilities, while some Managing Directors remain in their roles. “These positions are to be given to party leaders, and they will be filled,” he assured.