Minister Reddy moots Indira Canteens at KIA

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: For the benefit of the cab drivers ferrying passengers to and from the Kempegowda International Airport, several Indira Canteens are about to be set up near the city airport.

The idea was mooted by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy while he met the Karnataka State Private Transporters’ Federation on Monday over a proposed bandh call. The private bus, taxi and auto unions had planned to go on an indefinite strike starting from July 27.

The main concern of private transportation owners was that their revenue took a hit, ever since the Shakti scheme was launched.

However the minister met them and heard their grievances. During the discussion, the minister agreed for a plan to set up at least two Indira Canteens on the airport premises or nearby for the benefit of cab drivers.

"Apart from thousands of taxi drivers, there is no place where people drop off their relatives or friends at the airport to get something to eat at affordable prices. I will speak to BBMP chief commissioner Tushar Giri Nath to identify the spots and set up 2-3 Indira Canteens at the places close to the airport," Reddy said on Tuesday