Infrastructure push in BJP manifesto

Promises Special IT park, Special Education Zone in Dakshina Kannada

The former MLA N. Yogish Bhat, MLC Ganesh Karnik (third from left) and other party members releasing the Dakshina Kannada BJP Lok Sabha election manifesto in Mangalore on Saturday. Photo: R. Eswarraj

Better air, road and rail connectivity for Mangalore, protection of cattle, prominence to fisheries and agriculture are among the numerous promises mentioned in the BJP district manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections on Saturday.

Addressing presspersons, MLC Ganesh Karnik listed out the plans for the development of the district, most of which centre around Mangalore city. He claimed the manifesto was put together after an interaction with party workers and the electorate, and would compliment the national manifesto that touches on issues of national importance and foreign affairs.

Better infrastructure

Commenting that the four-laning of the National Highway that goes through the district was progressing slowly, the MLC assured that the project would be expedited.

The manifesto also promises to introduce more trains from the city, including to Bangalore through Arasikere; doubling and electrification of Konkan railway track, with local trains plying from Karwar to Kasaragod on the lines of the Mumbai local system; more flights from Mangalore International Airport, an international-level stadium, railway over or under bridges at all points of the city, widening of important roads, flyovers at Nantoor and Basaveshwara Circle, and a full-fledged passport office among others, said Mr. Karnik.

The manifesto promises to establish a Special Information Technology park here, while also starting a Special Education Zone in the city.

CRZ relaxation

For the district, the manifesto claims that the Coastal Regulatory Zone norms will be relaxed, such as in Goa and Kerala, to promote tourism and fisheries; a “permanent” solution to sea erosion; 24-hour electricity for farmers while also encouraging areca and coconut farmers; strengthening the public distribution system; usage of technology in the fisheries sector; establishment of a Special Agricultural Zone and Special Fisheries Zone and development of ports, among others.

While emphasising on the “protection of cattle” and ban on cow slaughter, the manifesto also promises special packages for animal husbandry and horticulture departments.

When asked about the implementation of the ambitious projects, Mr. Karnik said: “We have not budgeted these assurances, but it is possible with will.”