Bengaluru, Jul 31 (PTI) – Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the national capital on Wednesday, requesting additional funds for the development of Bengaluru and state irrigation projects. Shivakumar highlighted that despite Bengaluru’s significant tax contributions, the city has received insufficient allocations in the recent Union budget.
He expressed disappointment that the request for a GIFT City-like development in Bengaluru was not considered. Consequently, Shivakumar sought funds for crucial infrastructure projects, including tunnel construction, signal-free corridors, main roads, and storm water drains. Additionally, he requested Central assistance for irrigation projects across Karnataka.
Shivakumar recalled the funds allocated during former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s tenure for flyovers at Electronics City, Hebbal, and Nelamangala. He emphasized the urgent need for better infrastructure in Bengaluru due to the increasing population and stress on existing facilities.
Regarding the Upper Bhadra project, Shivakumar informed the Prime Minister that the committed Rs 5,300 crore from the previous Budget has not been released. Modi promised to address the issue in the upcoming Cabinet meeting. Shivakumar also discussed the excess water released to Tamil Nadu in July, seeking Modi’s intervention in the Mahadayi water dispute. However, Modi suggested resolving it among the concerned states.
Shivakumar also highlighted the recent release of 2.25 lakh cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu, the highest ever, due to heavy rains in the Cauvery basin, urging caution among residents.