Minister Somanna Promotes Sustainable Transport in Bengaluru
Saving fuel: MoS Somanna travels on metro & bike to flag off express train in Bengaluru
Image: The Economic Times
V Somanna, Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, promoted sustainable transport in Bengaluru by using the metro and an electric bike, responding to PM Modi's call for fuel conservation. He also flagged off a new express train connecting Karnataka and Maharashtra, highlighting significant railway developments in the state.
- 01Somanna rode the Namma Metro and an electric bike to promote eco-friendly transport options.
- 02The new express train service enhances connectivity between Karnataka and Maharashtra, boosting tourism and regional development.
- 03A Vande Bharat Sleeper maintenance depot will be established at Thanisandra at a cost of ₹270 crore (approximately $32 million USD).
- 04Karnataka received a record railway budget allocation of ₹7,748 crore (approximately $935 million USD) this year.
- 05Automatic signalling works are being implemented across key railway sections at a total cost of ₹6,396 crore (approximately $770 million USD).
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On Sunday, V Somanna, the Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, participated in a sustainability initiative in Bengaluru by traveling on the Namma Metro and an electric bike. This effort aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to reduce fuel consumption. Somanna's journey included a ride from MG Road metro station to Swami Vivekananda Metro station, where he engaged with passengers. He later flagged off the new SMVT Bengaluru – Lokmanya Tilak terminal express train, which aims to improve connectivity between Karnataka and Maharashtra, enhancing travel convenience and encouraging tourism. Somanna acknowledged the new train service and thanked Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for its sanction. He also highlighted significant railway infrastructure developments in Karnataka, including a Vande Bharat Sleeper maintenance depot and various signalling upgrades, all contributing to the state's railway capacity and efficiency. The state has seen extensive railway line development and electrification since 2014, with a focus on enhancing safety and accessibility for travelers.
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The new express train service will improve travel options between Karnataka and Maharashtra, potentially increasing tourism and economic activity in the region.
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