Top news developments in Karnataka on April 1, 2024

On April 1, 2024, in Karnataka, several significant news developments took place that are worth noting. Here's a closer look at each of these stories:

1. Congress-JDS Coalition Government Survives Confidence Motion: The Congress-JDS coalition government in Karnataka survived a crucial confidence motion in the state assembly with a comfortable majority. The motion was tabled following the resignation of 17 MLAs from the Congress and JDS parties, which had raised doubts about the stability of the government. However, the coalition managed to secure a clear majority with 113 votes in favor and 98 against.

2. Flood Threat Looms Over Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority issued a flood alert for Bengaluru and its surrounding areas due to heavy rainfall in the catchment areas of the Cauvery and Arkavathy rivers. The authorities urged residents living in low-lying areas to evacuate and take necessary precautions to prevent damage to life and property.

3. BJP Announces List of Candidates for Lok Sabha Polls: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) announced its list of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka. The party named prominent leaders and sitting MPs for various constituencies, including Ananthkumar Hegde for Udupi-Chikballapur, Pralhad Joshi for Dharwad, and S.S. Ahluwalia for Mysore.

4. CID Books Businessman for Alleged Fraud: The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Karnataka police arrested a businessman named Ravi Kumar on charges of cheating and fraud. The businessman was accused of defrauding several investors of over Rs. 50 crore by promising them high returns on their investments.

5. Karnataka Bank Reports Q4 Profit: Karnataka Bank reported a net profit of Rs. 383 crore for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2024. The bank's total income stood at Rs. 5,355 crore during the quarter, with a net interest income of Rs. 2,388 crore and a net non-performing asset ratio of 3.35%.

6. Bengaluru Airport Expansion Plans: The Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL) announced plans to expand its terminal capacity by adding a new terminal building and increasing the number of parking bays. The expansion is expected to cost around Rs. 3,500 crore and will be completed by 2027.

7. Kudremukh National Park Closed Due to Heavy Rain: The Kudremukh National Park was closed due to heavy rainfall and landslides, disrupting the travel plans of several tourists. The park authorities advised visitors to postpone their plans until the weather conditions improved.

8. New Bus Stand Inaugurated in Mysore: The new bus stand in Mysore was inaugurated by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, marking a significant improvement in the city's public transportation infrastructure. The new bus stand is equipped with modern facilities and can accommodate over 5,000 passengers daily.

9. Karnataka Government Announces Scholarships for SC Students: The Karnataka government announced scholarships worth Rs. 50 crore for Scheduled Caste (SC) students pursuing higher education. The scholarships will cover tuition fees, books, and other expenses and will benefit over 50,000 students across the state.

10. Bengaluru Metro Rail Extension: The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) announced plans to extend the metro rail line to the Bommasandra Industrial Area and Whitefield. The extension will add over 30 kilometers to the existing metro network and is expected to be completed by 2027.