Dinesh Gundu Rao calls for all-electric public transport in Bengaluru to combat rising pollution
Bengaluru: Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has urged for a shift towards all-electric public transportation in Bengaluru, citing the severe impact of vehicle emissions on public health.
In a letter to Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, Rao recommended that the city’s public transport system transition to electric vehicles as a crucial step to combat air pollution.
Rao stated that all government buses in Bengaluru should be electric and suggested that only electric autorickshaws, cabs, goods three-wheelers, and solid-waste collection vehicles should be allowed to operate in the city. He emphasised that the high volume of vehicles on Bengaluru’s roads, coupled with the city’s large population, is exacerbating pollution levels, which in turn has a detrimental effect on the health of its residents.
In his letter, Rao highlighted the link between air pollution and health issues, noting that without immediate action, Bengaluru could face a crisis similar to that of Delhi.
The health minister stressed the need for collective action to tackle air pollution and shift away from conventional fuels, calling it an urgent necessity rather than an option. He also stated that the government also bears responsibility for mitigating the negative impact of air pollution on the environment.
In response to Rao’s suggestions, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy acknowledged the letter and reportedly said that while certain measures required approval from the Union government, others could be implemented with permission from the state government. He further assured that steps would be taken to reduce vehicular emissions in Bengaluru.
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MEA reports more than 200 Indians enlisted in Russian military since 2022; 26 deaths confirmed
More than 200 Indian nationals have joined the Russian armed forces since 2022, with 26 are confirmed dead, MEA—The Ministry of External Affairs have informed the Upper house of the Parliament: Rajya Sabha.
In a written response, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, has stated that at least 202 Indians are reported to have joined the Russian army. Among these recruited personnels, 26 have lost their lives; while, seven individuals have been reported missing by Russian authorities. He added that the remains of two deceased Indian nationals were cremated in Russia.
Singh noted that the sustained diplomatic efforts by the Indian government have led to the early discharge of 119 individuals. He further added that the discussions are going smoothly with the Russians to secure the release of the remaining personnel, with efforts underway to facilitate the early discharge of 50 more Indian nationals.
According to the minister, the Union government is in contact with Russian authorities to ensure the safety, welfare, and prompt return of Indian citizens serving in the Russian army. The issue, he said, is being addressed at multiple levels, including interactions between senior leaders, ministers, and officials of both countries.
The said disclosure was made in response to queries raised by Saket Gokhale, the MP of Trinamool Congress, and Randeep Singh Surjewala, the MP of INC, regarding the number of Indians allegedly recruited into the military service in Russia; Along with the details of deaths and missing persons reported since 2022.
