George snubs flyover naysayers
Bengaluru,(DHNS): The government on Tuesday declared yet again it would not reconsider its plan to build a steel flyover here.
Bengaluru Development Minister K G George made a presentation to city MLAs and MPs about the project, and the meeting turned out to be stormy.
Briefing reporters, he said the project could not be shelved at this juncture.
When reporters reminded him that prominent citizens such as Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Narayana Murthy and Azim Premji were opposing the flyover, George said, “The government has a lot of respect for them… They can tell us how to better the project. But nobody can hijack the government’s decision.”
He sought suggestions on reducing traffic congestion and minimising tree loss. “I will not go to people and hear their opinions. They should come to me and give their suggestions,” he said.
The project was mentioned in the Congress manifesto and people who voted in the Assembly elections are in favour of it, the minister claimed.
George brushed aside the opposition of 48,000 citizens, who had petitioned him and formed a human chain on October 16.
“The BDA had called for suggestions and given five days’ time. But only 299 opinions came…. There is no purpose in voicing (opinions) now,” he said.
George also refused to comment on what details were put out in the public domain when the government had invited feedback.
It’s getting longer
George said the steel flyover would be extended beyond the Hebbal flyover, all the way till Columbia Asia Hospital.
In its latest avatar, it ends 200 metres before the beginning of the elevated highway to the airport. Its revised cost is likely to be Rs 2,200 crore.