Metro will ease traffic, says Kharge

Metro will ease traffic, says Kharge
New Indian Express

BANGALORE: Transport Minister M Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday reiterated that metro rail was the best solution to ease traffic congestion in Bangalore.

Inaugurating the 17th national Road Safety Week organised jointly by the traffic police and transport department here, Kharge said nearly 23.50 lakh vehicles were plying on roads in the city and the consequent traffic problems had become a matter of concern for people.

“To reduce traffic congestion, the Metro rail project is a must. The Centre has given the green signal for it and even union Finance Minister P Chidambaram supports it,” he said.

Meanwhile, Kharge asserted that the Metro project needs to pick up pace. “The project has slowed down in recent days and it is advisable that the infrastructure department carry out work faster. Metro rail will also ensure safe journey for school children,” he added.

Kharge suggested NGOs take an active part in creating awareness among motorists. “They need to play an important role in bringing about awareness. NGO programmes should not be limited for one or two events but must be a continuous process. Awareness should be created through street plays and other entertaining media,” Kharge said.

Police Commissioner Ajai Kumar Singh maintained that the number of road accidents has declined over the years.

“During 2004, 903 people died in road mishaps and 6,921 were injured. In 2005, 791 casualties were reported in road accidents and nearly 6,300 were injured,” he said.

Mayor Mumtaz Begum, Transport Commissioner Om Prakash, BMTC Managing director Upendra Tripati, several NGO representatives, and children from various schools were also present.