Udupi: Minister Ashok Promises Bus Stand in Dr Acharya's Name

News: Shubhalakshmi
Pics: Hemanath Padubidri
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Feb 16: "I will ensure that Dr V S Acharya's dream of building a regional transport office here is realized at the earliest. At the same time, a well-equipped bus stand will be built in Udupi by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), which will be named after Dr Acharya,” announced state home and transport minister R Ashok.

He was speaking to media persons on Thursday February 16 during his visit to the district office complex and the regional transport office. He arrived in the town on the night of Wednesday February 15 and immediately visited the home of Dr V S Acharya who passed away Tuesday February 14.

Speaking to media persons on Thursday, Ashok hailed Dr Acharya for bringing a new identity to BJP in the state through his service lasting over four decades. “He single-mindedly served the same party for such a long time. He was a gentleman among politicians. He has shown how can BJP’s concept be realized. He has come for lavish praise from all sections within BJP and outside."

Ashok said that as promised earlier and as per the desire of the people of the coastal districts, he had introduced Volvo buses between different destinations. He promised to apply for permission with regional transport office for running more Volvo bus services on Udupi and Kasargod route.

Relating to the controversy surrounding alleged rave party at St Mary’s Island off Malpe in the name of cultural festival and tourism development, Ashok asserted that use of drugs was never allowed at the island. “Our government just gave its nod for holding the programme. It was not involved with any other issues. To discuss on this issue, a meeting is being convened on Friday at airport conference hall,” he clarified.

Ashok claimed that during the tenure of the present government, KSRTC has undergone an image change, and that its quality is now on par with international standards. He promised to infuse vigour, vitality, and a whiff of fresh air into the police system by providing more opportunities in the department and meeting the needs of the department. He also stated that the government has been providing added impetus to issues like communal harmony and coastal security, besides controlling the naxal menace. He said the police force will be modernized to equip it to face new challenges and function more effectively.

Ashok was accompanied by MLA, Raghupati Bhat, deputy commissioner of the district, M T Reju, and superintendent of police, Boralingaiah, during the visit.