Minister Lad promises to resolve BRTS hurdles

Dharwad: District minister Santosh Lad said he would take necessary steps to resolves the hurdles related to Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) service between Dharwad and Hubballi.During an elaborate discussion with the members of voluntary organisation ‘Dharwad Dhwani' and other stakeholders here on Monday, the minister deliberated on several matters, including, allowing mixed vehicle movement at selected locations, construction of crossings for pedestrians and light vehicles, providing toilet and drinking water facilities at BRTS junctions, addressing the problem of waterlogging on roads, repair of bridges near Navalur and Unkal, and ensuring bus facilities from Hubballi railway station in the wee hours.Lad instructed officials to make preliminary preparations for proposals to be submitted to the government, covering necessary facilities, financial assistance and measures required to provide convenience to the public under the existing system. He also assured that on Sept 6, he will travel along the BRTS corridor from Hubballi to Dharwad to inspect the ground realities of the problems.The meeting was attended by deputy commissioner Divya Prabhu, NWKRTC MD Priyanga M, BRTS MD Savitri Kadi, functionaries Deepak Chinchore and Gururaj Hunashimarad, corporator Dr Mayur More, Eshwar Shivalli, and other office-bearers.Farmers meet ministerMeanwhile, a farmers' organisation met the minister and brought to his notice the loss incurred due to heavy rains. They stated that among the major affected crops are green gram, soybean, and black gram. Amid this crisis, farmers have managed to harvest only a small portion of their crops, but the yield has fallen far short of expectations. Therefore, they demanded that procurement centres for green gram, soybean, and black gram be opened across the district immediately. Along with this, the government must release compensation without delay and rush to the aid of the farmers.