Vijayapura (Karnataka), Jan 9 (NationPress) Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declared in Vijayapura that thanks to the support of the state's citizens, along with the backing from legislators and the party's high command, he has assumed the role of Chief Minister for a second time, breaking the record held by former Chief Minister D. Devaraj Urs.

During the inauguration and foundation-laying event for various development initiatives in Vijayapura district, organized by the district administration and Zilla Panchayat, the Chief Minister mentioned that it is solely due to the blessings of the people that he has surpassed Devaraj Urs' tenure, which lasted for seven years and 239 days, marking him as the longest-serving CM of Karnataka.

He expressed his gratitude to the citizens for this remarkable achievement.

Siddaramaiah noted that winning six out of eight Assembly constituencies in Vijayapura was significant, emphasizing that the blessings of the Vijayapura populace were instrumental in securing 135 seats during the Assembly elections.

He reflected on his 45 years of travel across the state, acknowledging the persistent support and blessings from the people of Vijayapura district.

He announced that development projects worth over Rs 800 crore have commenced in Vijayapura district, including the inauguration of projects worth Rs 82 crore and the laying of foundation stones for initiatives exceeding Rs 730 crore.

Additionally, he inaugurated a statue of Rani Chennamma and declared that the Vijayapura bus stand would be named after Kittur Rani Chennamma.

In terms of sports, Siddaramaiah revealed the establishment of the first velodrome in South India for cyclists in the area.

Regarding healthcare, he mentioned that a government medical college would soon be set up in Vijayapura. He noted that while the previous government aimed to establish a medical college under the PPP model, the current administration plans to create a government medical college. Presently, the state has 71 medical colleges, including 22 government-run institutions, and intends to establish trauma centers and super-specialty hospitals in other districts as well.

On infrastructure needs, Siddaramaiah addressed requests made by expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Yatnal, which included the construction of a three-kilometer flyover from Kanakadasa Circle to Ambedkar Circle and Shivaji Circle at a cost of Rs 160 crore. He assured that these demands would be met.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed his dissatisfaction, stating that the Central government is not cooperating with the Upper Krishna Project and has failed to issue a notification for it. He mentioned that neighboring states are creating obstacles through legal challenges.

Attendees at the event included Vijayapura district in-charge Minister M.B. Patil, Minister Shivanand Patil, and MLA Basanagouda Yatnal.