Bengaluru, Aug 5 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President, D.K. Shivakumar, announced on Tuesday that both he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah have formally requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to officiate the inauguration of the Yellow Metro Line in Bengaluru.

During an inspection of the Metro Yellow Line earlier in the day, Shivakumar, who also holds the title of Minister for Bengaluru Urban Development, addressed the media.

It was noted that there was no representation from the state government at the inauguration of the Sharavathi Cable Bridge in the Shivamogga district of Karnataka, which was solely attended by BJP leaders and inaugurated by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, leading to a public controversy.

Shivakumar emphasized, “The Metro project is not exclusively a Central government venture. Both the State and Central governments share responsibility. Our focus should be on public service, not political credit.”

When questioned about whether the inauguration was determined by the State or Central government, he asserted, “This is 'our' Metro. The Chief Minister and I have requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate it.”

Shivakumar added, “A date has now been set. This project is a joint effort with equal shareholding from both the state and central governments. We are all working for the public good as responsible leaders.”

He mentioned that the 19.15-km Yellow Line, comprising 16 stations and built at a cost of Rs 7,610 crore, is scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi on August 10, with a simple ceremony at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore auditorium.

On that day, the Prime Minister, Chief Minister, and local MLAs will travel by Metro. Additionally, concerns regarding funding shortages for land acquisition under the Double Decker project will be addressed with a proposal to Prime Minister Modi.

Addressing Metro expansion and the Double Decker project, Shivakumar remarked, “The MPs who are currently raising concerns should focus on securing funding, which would benefit Bengaluru. They should stop merely criticizing.”

He added that wherever new Metro lines are constructed, Double Decker roads will also be developed, and that “fair compensation must be provided if buildings need to be demolished.” This is a joint decision by BBMP and BMRCL.

Shivakumar acknowledged the recent safety clearance from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety on July 31, allowing operations on the Yellow Line, and commented on Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya, stating, “He is enthusiastic but inexperienced; such projects require time.”

He commended the contributions of all officers, contractors, and workers involved in the project, especially acknowledging former Managing Director Maheshwar Rao.

On the inauguration of the Hebbal Junction flyover, he shared, “It will take place by August 15 once we get a date from the Chief Minister, with the stretch from KR Puram to Mekhri Circle being opened first.”

Shivakumar explained the plan for a new tunnel road from Esteem Mall towards the university in the Nagavara direction, which will be presented to the Cabinet soon.

Discussing the surge in traffic in Bengaluru, he noted, “People from all over the country are flocking here. With our favorable climate, Cauvery water, and top-tier institutions, it’s no surprise.” He has instructed the Metro Authority to acquire more land near Metro stations for parking while utilizing the above space for commercial purposes.

When asked about the asphalting of new roads in Bengaluru, Shivakumar confirmed, “Yes, this is ongoing. However, our efforts will never fully meet Bengaluru's development needs. I will discuss this in the upcoming Assembly session.”

He also indicated that new strategies for second-tier cities are in development and will be shared soon. Addressing concerns regarding the performance of Metro feeder buses, he assured, “I will investigate this matter.”