Guv’s address focuses on city infrastructure

Governor Vajubhai Vala on Monday said the government would address the problem of infrastructure inadequacy in urban areas, especially Bengaluru, besides extending succour to distressed farmers.

Vala, who addressed the first joint session after the formation of the new government, indicated the coalition set-up’s intent to continue with the flagship programmes/schemes (popularly known as Bhagya schemes) launched by the previous Congress government headed by Siddaramaiah.

The government will strive towards integrated development of Bengaluru. “My government is aware of the infrastructure gaps in Bengaluru. It is necessary to effectively implement traffic control, drinking water systems and housing programmes in Bengaluru,” he said.

The Bangalore Metrorail Corporation (BMRCL) would complete 118 km of lane length by March 2021. The number of commuters travelling by Namma Metro would increase from the present 3.6 lakh people per day to about 20 lakh once
118 km of the project was completed, he added.

The Governor said the government would implement the ‘Mysuru public bicycle sharing system’ in Bengaluru. The system has won the special mobility award at the national level. The government was planning to implement the intelligent transport system in core areas of Bengaluru and provide facilities like free WiFi, closed circuit cameras, panic alarm and SOS button in the mobile app for women’s safety in buses.

“My government will prepare an annual work programme based on conditions of road data collected using state-of-the-art equipment. Details of roads, bridges and buildings in the state will be geo-tagged and captured in Geographical Information System,” he added.

Vala indicated that his government would announce the farm loan waiver.

“The days of anxiety are nearing an end. My government desires to become the voice of the voiceless farmer. I appeal to the farming community through the House not to resort to suicide for any reason.”

Vala said the government desired that the farmers adopt the Israeli model of farming. He said micro-irrigation systems would be implemented throughout the state.