Drought: Netas on whirlwind tour

Vrooming cars leave bystanders surprised; wonder if it is election time

Drought hit regions in Mysore and Mandya districts received a stream of high-profile ministers on Wednesday.

While a team led by Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president G Parameshwara visited areas neighbouring KRS Dam and Mysore, another team by home minister R Ashoka, law minister S Suresh Kumar and labour minister B N Bachegowda toured areas neighbouring Nagamangala in Mandya district.

While residents of villages were expecting a visit by these teams, the leaders ensured that they arrived way behind schedule. A schedule of Parameshwara’s visit said that he was to arrive at Mysore at 10.15 am. But he arrived at KRS in Srirangapatna taluk only at 12.30 noon.

After visiting the dam, Parameshwara said, “The state is facing the fiercest drought in 71 years. Even though water-level at KRS has reduced to 88 feet, the state government has failed to take any concrete steps. Congress is conducting a tour of drought-hit areas to wipe the tears of people.” Later, he visited Manchegowdanakoppalu, K Naganahalli and Kallur.

Much to the chagrin of Parameshwara, Congress leaders were welcomed with garlands and flex. He later told the activists to remove them as it wasn’t fit to put them up as people were suffering due to drought.

Ministers Ashoka, Suresh Kumar and B N Bachegowda were no different. A meeting was scheduled at 1 pm in Nagamangala. However, they arrived at 2.30 pm. The meeting with officials was held at an air-conditioned room and finished at 3.30 pm.

The team of minister finally left for inspection at 4 pm towards Doddagowdanadoddi and Chikkanadoddi. They unveiled a newly-sunk borewell, which was even supplied electricity, much to the surprise of the locals.

Both teams however had a large convoy of vehicles following them, much to the surprise of the locals. Many were heard expressing their doubt, if elections were round the corner as they hadn’t witnessed such a large number of leaders in their villages.