Karnataka government accelerates Bengaluru’s second airport plans, narrows down two locations
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government is speeding up plans for the construction of Bengaluru’s second international airport, with two potential locations now under serious consideration. This comes after growing concerns over delays and increased competition from Tamil Nadu's proposed greenfield airport in Hosur, which is situated just 35 km from Bengaluru.
In August, a study by consulting firm Idec had identified seven possible sites for the new airport. However, political disagreements had stalled progress. Home Minister G Parameshwara had advocated for Tumakuru near his constituency, while Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar pushed for sites in Ramanagara, including Bidadi and Harohalli. Shivakumar's proposal for a skydeck in Hemmigepura also raised concerns about potential conflicts with nearby air traffic zones. The government sought public feedback to address these issues.
With political distractions now resolved, the Infrastructure Department (ID) has confirmed that the site selection process is nearing completion. A detailed proposal is expected to be submitted to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) this week after ID Minister MB Patil returns from election duties.
The project has gained renewed attention as KSR Bengaluru City Railway Station is also set to undergo a ₹1,500-crore makeover, designed to mirror the style and amenities of Kempegowda International Airport, further elevating Bengaluru’s infrastructure plans.
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Beef up healthcare services in HP: Jai Ram Thakur advises state govt after ruckus at hospital
Shimla (PTI): Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur on Tuesday said the state government should take concrete steps to prevent overcrowding at hospitals, enhance security arrangements, reduce excessive workload and curb administrative negligence, which he held responsible for the assault of a patient by a doctor at a prominent hospital here.
In a statement issued here, Thakur said that this incident is a serious warning to the health department and the state government.
His statement came a day after a junior resident doctor allegedly assaulted a patient, throwing multiple punches, following an argument at the Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), sparking a protest with the victim's relatives demanding that the doctor be handed over to them.
A video of the shocking incident also surfaced on social media.
The leader of the opposition said the government should take concrete steps instead of making statements.
Expressing concern over the deteriorating condition of the healthcare sector in Himachal Pradesh, Thakur said today, the people are suffering due to this collapse in the sector.
"The state government should prioritise healthcare services and should immediately fill vacant posts in the sector. They should also strengthen security arrangements in hospitals and ensure uninterrupted supply of medicines and medical equipment in hospitals,” he added.
He further said that the state government should work honestly to ensure that the benefits of central schemes are provided to every person in Himachal Pradesh.
"Schemes such as Himcare and Ayushman Bharat should be ensured for the people, as they are very beneficial for poor and needy families as well as for the middle-class people. However, due to negligence and mismanagement of the government in implementing them, people are unable to avail the benefits,” Thakur said.
He also alleged that, despite the budget being allocated by the Centre for these schemes, patients are unable to avail the basic facilities.
The situation is such that even many essential medicines are not available for patients, he added.
