Bengaluru
Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble pleasantly surprised many as he opted for a BMTC bus ride back home from the airport amidst the Bengaluru bandh called by private transporters. Kumble, sharing a photo of himself on the bus, captioned the post with, BMTC trip back home on Monday from the airport. The post garnered a positive response from many of his followers. Users expressed admiration for Kumble’s down-to-earth approach, with some highlighting his humility and simplicity. Some followers also added a touch of humor to their responses, with one user humorously noting, Anil Sir’s bowling speed was faster than the speed of the BMTC bus. The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) had deployed over 500 buses to the airport in anticipation of the bandh, providing additional transportation options for commuters. The city’s transport minister, Ramalinga Reddy, ensured the deployment of extra buses throughout the city to facilitate convenience for the public. Additionally, the Namma Metro ran trains at 5-minute intervals during non-peak hours to accommodate the surge in commuters. However, amidst the bandh, protesting transport unions actively prevented autorickshaws and taxis from operating. Some reports detailed incidents of protesters deflating tires, slashing the tire of a Toyota Innova taxi, and even targeting a taxi driver in Hebbal by smashing an egg on his head. The private transporters initiated the bandh in protest against various issues, including the Shakti free travel scheme for women in government buses, monthly aid for auto and taxi drivers, and the ban on Rapido two-wheeler taxis, among other grievances.
