Bengaluru : Karnataka Government is gearing up to tackle the possible third wave, said Revenue Minister Mr R Ashoka.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Mr Ashoka said, “Based on experts’ recommendations, we are already ramping up infrastructure. Paediatric hospitals are being set up while doctors are being trained on how to treat children besides procuring medicines. While the Covid cases are rising in Kerala and Maharashtra, the cases are under control in Karnataka. This is mainly because of the good work done by Mr BS Yediyurappa-led government where every minister is working as a team. We have already set up check-posts at border areas to test people coming from neighbouring States. However, we need to take tough measures and will discuss the issue with CM BS Yediyurappa on further intensifying the border checking.”

Mr Ashoka also appreciated Bommanahalli MLA Satish Reddy for helping people during Covid. “I can proudly say that a majority of the food kits were provided in Bommanahalli where more than a lakh such kits have been distributed”, he said.

The Revenue Minister also said that he has instructed officials to raid the quarry areas to check if they are being operated legally and also if they were following norms. “I have already directed the respective deputy commissioners and tahsildars to conduct surprise checks at quarries. As far as Krishna Raja Sagar is concerned, a team of technical experts have clarified that there are no cracks in the reservoir. I feel that the recent war of words between former CM Mr HD Kumaraswamy and Mandya MP Ms Sumalatha Ambareesh is due to their personal rivalry which had come out of the result of the Mandya by polls. From the government’s end, we have taken all precautions. In fact, we have stopped quarrying at Baby hills for the last six months”, he added.

Food kits distributed to Savita Samaja members

Later, Mr R Ashoka distributed food kits to the members of Savita Samaj. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Ashoka said, “Savita Samaja plays a very important role in our society. I know this community has been hit hard by the Covid pandemic. So, I want to reassure you that I and my team will always be with you. We have been providing kits to various communities and sectors. Today, I seek all your blessings as well.”

Karnataka Savita Samaja Development Board president Mr Naresh Kumar, BJP Mandal president Mr Ravi and party leaders Mr Lakshmikanth, Mr Kabbalu Umesh and Mr Basavaraju were present.