Vishwanath seeks explanation

Former MP A H Vishwanath demanded an explanation from Mysuru-Kodagu MP Prathap Simha on how a Passport Seva Kendra will be set up in the city.

“One of the promises made by him during the election was to set up the Kendra, if he wins. He should issue clarification on how the Kendra will come up,” he said.

One of the requirements for such a Kendra in a city is regular air traffic. However, activities in Mandakalli Airport has been stalled since a few months. Union Aviation Minister A Gajapathi Raju too promised that flights will continue to operate from the city, during his visit to Mysuru recently, he said.

Recalling the assurances made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi that Mysuru will be developed on the lines of Paris, he said, the MP should provide details of the progress made on this regard.

Despite tall promises of development, funds sanctioned by the earlier UPA government for development in cities like Mysuru have been withdrawn, he said. “The MP should answer why Rs 250 crore drinking water project from Hale Undawadi, which was projected to provide drinking water to 40 villages and several layouts of the city, and the construction of the Railway Medical College is not being taken up,” he demanded.

Funds to the tune of Rs 408 crore meant for UGD projects has also been withdrawn after the BJP assumed power. Similar has been the case with Rs 140 crore sanctioned for the development of airport, he said.